By Joe Ruzich, PT December 15, 2015

Ankle sprains are one of the most common joint sprains that I see in my practice.  Ankle sprains occur usually by the rolling of the ankle inwards past its normal movement.   If not properly treated, these common joint sprains can mean a lifetime of problems.  An ankle sprain involves damage to the ligaments of the ankle, typically one or more of the three outside ligaments.  The sprain may vary in severity from minor to severe.  With a mild sprain (Grade 1), the ligament is mildly stretched and will result in little swelling or bruising.  There may be some tenderness along the outside of the ankle.  A moderate sprain (Grade 2), the ligaments have been partially torn and results in increased swelling, bruising, loss of movement, and trouble putting weight through the foot.  A severe sprain (Grade 3) involves a complete tearing of the one or more of the ligaments. Symptoms will include the above plus feelings of instability and great difficulty putting weight through the foot.

Immediate Care

The first thing to do when you suffer an ankle sprain is to stop your activity immediately and assess the severity of the injury. If the ankle sprain is mild to moderate, elevate the ankle and apply a light compression wrap to minimize the swelling.  You can apply ice for a short period of time immediately after the injury.  I would recommend applying ice no longer than 10 minutes initially, then removing it for 20 minutes, and and only repeating once more.  You should not ice more than 8 hours after the injury.  The effectiveness of ice has been called into question in recent studies (see my previous blog Why RICE Treatments May Not Be the Answer for Ligament Sprains).  If the ankle sprain is severe, you should seek medical attention immediately to rule out a fracture.   Do not take anti-inflammatory medication (ibuprofen or Aleve) as these medications have been shown to slow down the healing of ligament sprains.

Early Movement is Key

If the ankle sprain is a grade 1 or 2, early movement is key to proper healing.  This should start within 48 hours of the injury. Prolonged immobilization can actually delay healing. Here are some stretches/movements you can do 3-4 times a day:
1.  Alphabet- Trace the capital letters of the alphabet with the injured ankle A-Z.
2. Circles- Make circles clockwise and counterclockwise with the ankle for 15 repetitions.
3. Achilles stretches- Use a towel to pull back on toes and stretch the Achilles tendon.  Hold for 5 seconds and repeat 10 repetitions.
4. Standing Calf Raises- Start this once you can put full weight on the ankle.  Do this by raising up on your tip toes and then back down.  Start with 10 repetitions and work up to 30.  Do this with two legs and work up to a single leg.
*Discontinue any of the above exercises if they are painful.

Balance and Proprioception

Once you are able to walk normally, it is important to develop the ankle’s ability to balance and control its movement.  This is done through a process called proprioception training, which refers to your brains ability to know what position your ankle is in.  After an ankle sprain, the small nerve endings in the ankle which convey information to the brain about position are damaged.  This affects your ability to maintain your balance and ankle control. Without correcting this problem you are likely to sprain your ankle again and repetitive ankle sprains can lead to an unstable ankle and the need for surgery. Here are several activities you can do to improve this ability:

1.  Stand on one leg and try to keep your balance, use support if needed.  Start with 15 seconds for 3 repetitions and work up to 1 minute.
2. Stand on one leg with your eyes closed and try to keep your balance, us e support as needed.  Start 15 seconds for 3 repetitions and work up to 30 seconds.
3. Stand on one leg on a pillow or piece of foam to challenge your balance.  Start 30 seconds 3 repetitions and work up to 1 minute.
4. Single leg windmills- Stand on one leg and hold opposite hand in the air.  Bend forward and try to touch the opposite hand to the floor and return to an upright position keeping your balance.

Chronic Ankle Instability

After an ankle sprain, if full motion, strength, and balance/proprioception is not restored you are prone to re-injury.  About 30-40% of people who sustain ankle sprains suffer another episode within 6 months.  This can cause additional damage to the ligaments and cartilage resulting in further pain and possible early arthritis.

What Else Can You Do?

Proper initial treatment and rehabilitation of an ankle sprain is vital to minimize the chance of further problems. Evaluation by a physical therapist to determine the severity of the problem followed by an appropriate treatment plan is your best option. This is a simple and affordable way to ensure you recover fully. If you have sprained your ankle call 719 568 9790 today and ask about our specially discounted Ankle Sprain Outreach program. No doctor referral required.