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Ankle Sprain and How to Prevent it

Ligament damage leads to ankle sprains and is graded into three stages based on the tear severity.
Health professionals describe ankle sprain as the movement of ligaments surrounding the ankle in an abnormal manner, different from the natural position. Excessive wear and tear of the ankle Sprain can happen to anyone. Excessive wear and tear of the ankle lead to torn ligaments.

ankle sprain types

Type of injury:

First-grade ankle sprain:These sprains occur due to slight stretching, which affects the ligaments, the ankle is stable, and walking is possible. The ankle generally swells up, and it hurts. The best treatment is to exercise by doing full-length stretches.

Second-grade ankle sprain:The sprains occur due to some partial tearing of ligaments of the ankle. This type of sprain generally inhibits due to laxity that is an abnormal looseness of the ankle joint. A torn ligament leads to bleeding, bruising, and excruciating pain. The treatment involves physical therapy and stretching exercises.

Third-grade ankle sprain:A complete tear of the ligament leads to severe pain and swelling; walking and slipping your feet into shoes becomes very difficult. In this case, the impairment is severe. A significant joint instability leads to a more extended rehabilitation period with long therapy sessions. For reducing the recovery period, use an ankle brace.

Preventative Measures to Avoid Ankle Sprain:

Athletes and sportspersons should adequately warm-up to avoid straining ankle ligaments before going into a rigorous workout.
Avoid walking on uneven surfaces, which can lead to a roll-over ankle and strain your ligaments.
High heels add elegance to your gait, but it also leads to ankle sprains. Try avoiding it or use it carefully in your day to day use.
If you are prone to ankle sprains regularly, consulting with a physiotherapist or a podiatrist.
Mild exercises and stretching of your ankle keep it in good shape and reduces the chance of tearing your ligaments.
Wearing anankle braceis an option to avoid ankle roll-over.

Treatment :

Ankle Sprains can lead to hindrance in daily activity. For seniors, it can lead to falls that can be deadly. In some severe cases, surgery can fix the problem.

The surgical treatment includes the following:

Arthroscopy: A specialist looks for the torn off ligaments and gives the necessary treatment.
Reconstruction: In severe cases, when the ligaments do not heal over a certain period, the surgeon stitches the torn ligaments.

Recovery of ankle sprains :

Generally, ankle sprains recover with time.

Proper rest with acold therapytreatment will help in faster recovery.
Mild exercises and slow movements and stretches will help in recovering faster.
Gentle ankle stretches help in the post-recovery process.