A sprained ankle is one of the most common injuries in America. Sprained ankles make up nearly half of all ankle injuries, and they are especially common among athletes. Sports injuries often include a sprained ankle with prolonged symptoms, which is why personalized treatment and preventative care are so essential.
While an ankle sprain may stop you right in your tracks, other symptoms may not be as obvious. In fact, some ankle injuries can be more subtle, and you may even find yourself worsening them without realizing it.
At Burlington County Foot & Ankle Associates, we treat hundreds of ankle injuries every year. From children to seniors, our family-friendly practice helps everyone recover, heal and get back to living life fully after an injury.
If you’re wondering if you’ve sprained your ankle or need treatment, take a look at some of the most common ankle injuries we see on a daily basis.
Common Ankle Injuries
Ankle Sprain
A sprained ankle occurs when the ligaments on the sides of your ankle become overworked, stretched, or torn. This injury can be mild or severe, sometimes requiring ankle sprain surgery. In other cases, rest, elevation, and patience are the best remedies.
When you sprain your ankle, pain can radiate along the outside of the bone. Many people mistake their sprain for a broken ankle. Pain on the outside is typically less severe than inner ankle pain, which may involve tendons or ligaments inside the muscle, so seek help quickly if you experience it.
Signs of a sprained ankle to watch for:
- Pain and swelling
- Tenderness to the touch
- Difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot
- Reduced range of motion
- Popping sound at the time of injury
Rolled Ankle
A rolled or twisted ankle may feel similar to a sprain, but subtle differences can affect symptoms and treatment. Identifying whether you have a rolled ankle or ankle sprain helps your doctor choose the best course of action.
Ankle injuries are determined by examining which parts are affected: bone, tendon, or ligaments. A rolled ankle can be an internal (inversion) or external (eversion) rotation, and severity is classified as Grade I, II, or III.
- Grade I ankle sprains: Mild discomfort and some pain; typically heal with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E. method).
- Grade II ankle sprains: Moderate injury that limits daily activities; may require rest and possibly a splint during recovery.
- Grade III ankle sprains: Severe injuries needing immediate medical intervention and often surgery; may require a cast and, in some cases, repeat procedures to repair ligaments.
Ankle Fractures
Ankle fractures are classified by their location: above, at, or below the ankle syndesmosis joint. They may be severe, preventing walking, or subtle, with patients sometimes unaware of the severity until the injury worsens through overuse.
Causes include sports injuries, exercise, slips and falls, tripping, or physical trauma. Warning signs include swelling, pain, tenderness, bruising, and a “popped” appearance from a dislocated joint.
Acute vs. Overuse Injury
Acute ankle injuries have an identifiable cause, such as a fall or accident. Athletes often experience ankle pain during training or games. Children and adults who twist or trip can sustain acute injuries that may worsen over time if repeatedly stressed.
Overuse injuries may occur in sports or everyday life. Repeated pressure on an ankle that hasn’t fully healed can worsen fractures or ligament damage. Giving ligaments time to heal is essential for a strong recovery.
Explore Your Treatment Options
Treatment begins with an in-depth exam. We provide patients with tailored options based on lifestyle and needs, aiming to alleviate symptoms while safely rehabilitating the ankle. Options include non-invasive care and, in severe cases, ankle sprain surgery.
If you are seeking ankle injury treatment, please contact us today to schedule an appointment, or call us at (609) 714-0052. We are happy to answer any questions about foot and ankle pain and help guide you toward recovery.
FAQs
Q: What are the most common types of ankle injuries?
A: The most common ankle injuries are sprains, rolled/twisted ankles, and fractures. Sprains involve overstretched or torn ligaments, rolled ankles can be mild or severe, and fractures involve broken bones in or around the ankle joint.
Q: How can I tell if my ankle injury is a sprain or a fracture?
A: Symptoms like swelling, bruising, tenderness, inability to bear weight, and deformity may indicate a fracture. A sprain usually causes pain, swelling, and a popping sound at the time of injury but typically doesn’t deform the ankle. X-rays or other imaging are used to confirm fractures.
Q: What are the grades of ankle sprains?
A: Ankle sprains are classified as:
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Grade I:
Mild pain and swelling; usually heals with R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression, elevation).
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Grade II:
Moderate injury; may require rest and a splint.
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Grade III:
Severe injury; often requires surgery and immobilization.
Q: What is the difference between acute and overuse ankle injuries?
A: Acute injuries happen suddenly from a fall, accident, or twist. Overuse injuries develop over time from repetitive stress, improper healing, or inadequate recovery, which can worsen an injury if ignored.
Q: How are ankle injuries treated?
A: Treatment depends on the type and severity:
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E.) for mild sprains.
- Braces, splints, or orthotics to support healing.
- Physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility.
- Surgery for severe sprains or fractures.
Q: How long does it take to recover from an ankle injury?
A: Recovery varies based on injury severity: mild sprains may heal in a few weeks, while severe sprains, fractures, or surgical repairs may require months of rehabilitation. Following medical advice improves recovery time.
Q: Can ankle injuries be prevented?
A: Yes. Preventive strategies include proper footwear, ankle-strengthening exercises, stretching before activity, avoiding uneven surfaces, and gradually increasing activity intensity.