An ankle sprain is an injury that causes a stretch or a tear of one or more ligaments in the ankle joint. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bone to bone at a joint. Sprains are graded I, II, or III, depending on the severity of the damage to the tissue. Some sprains are simply classified as mild or severe and are usually caused by twisting of the ankle. The foot usually turns in or under, but may also turn out.
Symptoms of a sprained ankle include swelling, mild ache or sudden pain, discoloration, inability to move the ankle, or pain with or without weight on the foot. Individuals suffering from a sprained ankle should consult a health professional to assess the severity and determine appropriate care.
Physical Therapy plays an important role in treating ankle sprains- even first time, mild ankle sprains, resulting in little discomfort. Physical therapy treatment may include treatment of swelling, provide assistance in choosing appropriate foot and ankle support, instruct the individual on the use of crutches if needed, and instruct the individual on skilled exercises to improve range of motion, and strength. Physical Therapy also plays a very important role in balance training for prevention of a second or reoccurring ankle sprain. Proprioception, or the ability to know where one is in space, may be altered with an ankle sprain, therefore leading to the potential of more injury to the ligaments.
If you have any questions on the role of physical therapy in ankle sprains, please contact Joint Ventures Physical Therapy.
