Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains are common, painful injuries that occur when one or more ligaments in the ankle stretch or tear from a sudden and unforeseen twisting, turning, or rolling movement. The severity of the ankle sprain can vary, but this injury most commonly happens during athletic activities, in people of all ages.

There are three types of ankle sprains categorized by the type of movement that causes them:

• Lateral Inversion Sprain is the most common type of ankle sprain that occurs when the foot rolls inward, injuring the ligaments on the outer side of the ankle.
• Medial Inversion Sprain is the second type of ankle sprain that occurs when the foot rolls outwards, injuring the ligaments on the inner side of the ankle.
• Syndesmosis (High Ankle) Sprain is the least common type of ankle sprain that occurs when the ankle rolls outwards, while simultaneously, the leg rolls inwards. Syndesmosis usually occurs during contact sports, such as football.

The symptoms of ankle sprains vary depending on the type of ankle injury, and the degree of damage to the ligaments. Usually, a patient will experience:

• Mild to severe pain
• Bruising
• Tenderness
• Swelling
• Trouble walking
• Inflammation

The treatment of ankle sprains vary depending on the type and severity of the injury. The first line of treatment includes RICE: resting, icing, compression, elevation. A bandage wrap, ankle brace, or walking boot may be required depending on the extent of the sprain. A doctor may also prescribe anti-inflammatory medications for the pain and swelling. Surgery is not usually needed in these types of injuries, unless the specific case is very severe.

Dr. Benjamin Tehrani is a highly esteemed LA podiatrist who has successfully treated ankle sprains patients across LA. If you need to consult him about any ankle problem you experience, please contact us.