Preventing Low Ankle Sprain: Tips and Techniques

A Comprehensive Guide to Low Ankle Sprains

Low ankle sprains are common injuries that result from a tear or stretch in the ligaments, typically those located on the outside of the ankle. These injuries differ from high ankle sprains, which impact the ligaments connecting the lower leg bones. This difference makes it vital to understand high ankle sprain versus low ankle sprain. Experiencing a low ankle sprain can lead to pain, swelling, and walking difficulties. However, by understanding its symptoms, diagnosis, and low ankle sprain treatment, you can effectively manage this condition and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Understanding Low Ankle Sprains

Low ankle sprains, as opposed to high ankle sprains, are generally the injury implied by the term ankle sprain. These are injuries that affect the ligaments in the ankle joint, which are strong bands of tissue connecting the bones and providing stability. These sprains usually result from a sudden twisting or rolling of the foot, causing the ligaments to stretch or tear. This can occur during activities like walking on uneven surfaces, participating in sports that involve jumping or rapid changes in direction, or even simply by stepping off a curb incorrectly. It’s important to know the difference between high ankle sprain vs low ankle sprain as it impacts the treatment approach.

Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of suffering a low ankle sprain. These include previous ankle injuries, wearing inappropriate footwear, participating in high-impact sports without the necessary preparation or warm-up, having weak ankle muscles, and high arch (i.e. cavus) feet.

Dr. Vosseller treats low ankle sprains Low Ankle Sprain

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms

Identifying the signs and symptoms of a low ankle sprain is crucial for receiving appropriate treatment. Common signs include pain around the ankle joint, swelling, bruising, difficulty bearing weight, instability, and a limited range of motion. Symptoms can vary from sharp or dull pain, stiffness, difficulty in walking, a popping sensation during the injury, to numbness or tingling in the foot or toes. The severity of ankle sprains can greatly influence these symptoms.

If you notice severe pain, excessive swelling, visible deformity, numbness, or persistent inability to bear weight even after a few days, it’s important to seek medical attention. Proper diagnosis and treatment are key to a quick and complete recovery.

Diagnosis of Low Ankle Sprains

To diagnose a low ankle sprain, healthcare professionals carry out physical examinations and, in some cases, imaging tests. During the examination, they will evaluate the ankle’s tenderness, swelling, range of motion, and stability to assess the severity of the sprain.

If necessary, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs may be used to confirm the diagnosis and identify any associated injuries. These tests can differentiate between high ankle sprain vs low, which affect the outer ligaments, and high ankle sprains, which impact the ligaments connecting the lower leg bones.

Treating Low Ankle Sprains

The low ankle sprain treatment depends on the severity of the injury. For mild to moderate sprains, non-surgical methods are recommended. These include the R.I.C.E. protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation), pain medication, immobilization with a brace, splint, or boot, and physical therapy.

Rehabilitation exercises and therapies are also crucial to recovery. These might include range of motion exercises, strengthening exercises, balance and proprioception training, and therapeutic modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, or cold therapy.

In severe cases or when non-surgical treatments fail, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged ligaments or tendons. This can be the case for both high ankle sprain vs low ankle sprain.

Dr. Vosseller treats low ankle sprains Ankle Sprain

Prevention Measures

Preventing low ankle sprains involves wearing proper footwear, using ankle support, and performing strengthening exercises. Shoes should provide adequate support and cushioning, with a snug fit that stabilizes the ankle. Ankle braces or wraps can provide added stability and support, particularly during physical activities that put the ankle at risk.

Regular strengthening exercises targeting the muscles around the ankle can also enhance stability and reduce the risk of sprains. It’s important to note that these prevention measures apply to both high ankle vs low ankle sprain.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

The recovery timeline for low ankle sprains can vary, with mild sprains healing in a few days to weeks and more severe sprains taking several weeks to even months. Physical therapy can be beneficial, with techniques such as manual therapy, range of motion exercises, strengthening exercises, and balance training used to promote healing. Surgery is more rarely needed in those ankles that continue to hurt or be unstable despite prolonged rehabilitation.

Returning to daily activities and sports should be gradual, starting with simple activities like walking and slowly progressing to more demanding movements. This approach, combined with ample rest, allows the ankle to fully recover and helps prevent re-injury. This recovery process applies to both high ankle sprain vs low ankle sprain.

Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute

At JOI Online, our dedicated healthcare providers specialize in diagnosing and treating various foot conditions, including heel pain. Don’t delay in seeking help, contact us today to schedule an appointment and find the relief you deserve.

By: Dr. Turner Vosseller, Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Surgeon

Dr. Vosseller is an Internationally Recognized Orthopaedic Surgeon who practices at the Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute San Marco Clinic, and he is currently accepting new patients. JOI is Northeast Florida’s most respected orthopedic practice. To schedule an appointment, please call 904-JOI-2000 or click below to schedule online. Dr. Vosseller is a noted leader in minimally invasive techniques in the foot and ankle and has performed hundreds of surgeries using these techniques.