Ankle Injuries You Shouldn’t Ignore

Ankle injuries are common conditions encountered in daily life, especially ankle sprains, which can occur from everyday activities including exercise. If not properly treated, they may lead to complications or chronic symptoms that affect long-term quality of life.

 

Understanding the symptoms, causes, first aid methods, treatment approaches, and proper prevention can help reduce the risk of complications and accelerate the recovery process effectively.

 

1. Characteristics of Ankle Injuries

Ankle injuries can vary depending on the type and severity, categorized as:

Acute Symptoms

      ๐  Immediate ankle pain after injury

      ๐  Swelling around the ankle

      ๐  Bruising or discoloration

      ๐  Difficulty moving, unable or difficult to walk

Chronic Symptoms

      ๐  Ankle pain during use

      ๐  Stiff ankle, especially in the morning

      ๐  Weak muscles around the ankle

      ๐  Feeling of looseness or instability when standing, or recurrent ankle sprains

 

2. Common Causes of Ankle Injuries

      ๐  Sports activities such as running on uneven surfaces, jumping, or quick direction changes

      ๐  Daily life accidents such as misstepping on stairs, slipping due to unsuitable environments, or wearing inappropriate footwear

      ๐  Personal risk factors

      ๐  History of previous ankle sprains

      ๐  Weak muscles around the ankle

      ๐  Overweight or aging

      ๐  Reduced ankle flexibility

 

3. Basic First Aid

Use the RICE protocol especially during the first 48 - 72 hours after injury

R – Rest

      ๐  Avoid activities that increase pain

      ๐  Avoid putting weight on the injured ankle

      ๐  Use crutches or supportive devices

I – Ice

      ๐  Apply ice for 15–20 minutes every 2–3 hours using a cloth barrier to avoid direct skin contact

      ๐  C – Compression

      ๐  Use an elastic bandage to wrap snugly but not too tight to avoid restricting blood flow

E – Elevation

      ๐  Elevate the ankle above heart level to reduce swelling, using pillows when lying down or sitting

Avoid during the first 48-72 hours

      ๐  Do not apply heat

      ๐  Avoid massage or overusing the ankle

 

4. Ankle Injuries That Require Medical Attention

      ๐  Severe pain preventing weight-bearing

      ๐  Deformed or abnormal ankle appearance

      ๐  Numbness or color change in the foot

      ๐  Hearing a “pop” sound at the time of injury

      ๐  Persistent pain despite initial care

      ๐  History of multiple recurrent ankle injuries

      ๐  Ankle pain lasting more than 1 week

      ๐  Unstable or abnormally loose ankle

      ๐  Limited ankle movement

      ๐  Signs of infection such as redness, warmth, or pus

 

5. Clinical Diagnosis

Doctors diagnose through

      ๐  Medical history and physical examination

      ๐  X-ray imaging: to check for fractures and alignment of joints

      ๐  Additional examinations

      ๐  Ultrasound: to assess tendons and muscles

      ๐  MRI: to evaluate tendons, muscles, joint surfaces, and bones

      ๐  CT scan: to assess complex fractures

      ๐  Assessment of ligament tear severity

      ๐  Grade 1: Ligament inflammation or slight stretching without tear

      ๐  Grade 2: Partial ligament tear

      ๐  Grade 3: Complete or full ligament tear

 

Treatment Approaches

Non-surgical treatment: Most patients recover without surgery

Acute phase (0 - 72 hours)

      ๐  Follow the RICE protocol

      ๐  Take pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications as prescribed

      ๐  Use ankle support devices or short leg splints depending on severity

      ๐  Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs such as paracetamol or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Rehabilitation phase (3 - 7 days)

      ๐  Start applying heat once swelling decreases

      ๐  Begin light exercises such as ankle movements to increase flexibility and prevent stiffness

      ๐  Gentle massage to stimulate blood circulation

Recovery phase (1-4 weeks)

      ๐  Strengthen muscles around the ankle (Strengthening), improve flexibility (Stretching), and enhance balance and proprioception

      ๐  Physical therapy to reduce inflammation such as ultrasound or laser therapy

 

Surgical Treatment

Arthroscopic surgery is commonly used, which involves smaller incisions and faster recovery. Indications include

      ๐  Complete ligament tear (Grade 3)

      ๐  Persistent ankle instability

      ๐  No improvement after continuous treatment for 3–6 months

 

7. Frequently Asked Questions

How long should ankle pain last after a sprain before seeing a doctor?

      ๐  If symptoms persist for more than 4 weeks, it is recommended to see a doctor to identify the cause, as risk factors may prolong pain such as

      ๐  More severe tendon or bone injury than expected

      ๐  Inadequate treatment

      ๐  Improper rehabilitation or physical therapy

 

What are the complications of ankle sprains?

      ๐  Chronic ankle instability

      ๐  Frequent recurrent ankle sprains

      ๐  Chronic pain

      ๐  Post - traumatic ankle osteoarthritis

 

8. Summary of Recommendations

Ankle injuries, especially ankle sprains, are common problems that should not be overlooked. Proper initial treatment, evaluation by specialists, and continuous physical therapy can reduce complications and help patients safely return to normal daily activities.

 

If symptoms do not improve within an appropriate time frame or if there are warning signs, consult a doctor immediately for proper diagnosis and care.

 

Source : 

Phyathai 3 Hospital

Arokago Providers Phyathai 3 Hospital