Ankle Sprain

I got so clumsy today that I sprained my right ankle. Now, I could not move around the house without watching my steps and reaching for something I can hold on to.

Photo from A. D. A. M.

Sprain is a medical condition wherein one or more of the ligaments of the ankle is over stretched, torn or partially torn. Sprains happen when the ankle rotates beyond its normal range of motion like what happens when you trip, you fall or jump and then you lose balance.

There are three types of ankle sprain:

1. Inversion ankle sprain (this is what happened to me). This happens when the foot becomes too much inverted (you turn your foot inwards). In this type of ankle sprain, the lateral ligament--anterior talofibular ligament--of the ankle becomes over stretched. According to studies, 90% of ankle sprains are inversion type.

2. Eversion ankle sprain. This is the opposite of inversion. The medial ligaments become over stretched when this type of sprain happens.

3. High ankle sprain. This least common type of sprain happens when there is a sudden twisting of the foot. The large ligaments above the ankle are involved in this type of sprain. This is common among football, soccer and basketball players.

Sprains can also be typed according to the extent of the damage to the ligaments. Mine is grade 1 since the ligament was just over stretched and needs only rest. Grade 2 is when there is already a slight tear on the ligament. Grade 3, the most severe case, is when the ligament is completely torn and the sprain already involves the blood vessels and muscles.

You only need to remember rice if you have sprain. It is not the rice that we eat. Rice stands for Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. Ice constricts the blood vessels, therefore reducing inflammation but alternate cold compress with hot compress every five minutes. Start and end with cold compress. Elevating the sprained ankle also helps to reduce swelling. If the pain is severe, it is still best to consult a doctor.

To get more information about ankle sprains, check out these links:

American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons

Mayo Clinic

Web MD