What to do if you sprain your ankle
Feb 24, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Jian
Introduction
Ankle sprains may be associated with improper exercise, uneven ground, ligament laxity, joint instability, and osteoporosis. They can usually be treated with ice application, rest, compression bandaging, elevation of the affected limb, medication, and physical therapy. To prevent ankle sprains, one should pay attention to exercise safety and avoid walking on uneven or slippery surfaces.
Ankle sprains may be related to improper exercise, uneven ground, ligament laxity, joint instability, osteoporosis, and other factors. They can usually be treated with ice application, rest, compression bandaging, elevation of the affected limb, medication, and physical therapy. If pain persists or swelling worsens, timely medical attention is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Improper exercise: During intense physical activity or exercise, if movements are improper or adequate warm-up is not performed, ankle sprains may easily occur. It is recommended to stop exercising immediately after a sprain and perform initial management following the RICE principle (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation), and seek prompt medical evaluation for possible fractures or severe injuries such as ligament tears.
2. Uneven ground: Walking on uneven or slippery surfaces may cause ankle sprains due to loss of balance. This type of sprain is usually accompanied by sudden pain and swelling. In addition to the emergency measures mentioned above, walking should be avoided as much as possible after a sprain to allow adequate rest for the injured area and promote recovery.
3. Ligament laxity: Due to genetic factors, aging, or long-term sports-related wear and tear, the ankle ligaments may become loose, leading to decreased joint stability and increased risk of sprains. Symptoms may include joint instability and habitual ankle twisting. Management may involve wearing a brace to limit abnormal range of motion, undergoing ligament reconstruction surgery to enhance joint stability, and engaging in rehabilitation exercises to strengthen muscle strength.
4. Joint instability: Congenital developmental abnormalities or post-traumatic sequelae may cause the ankle joint to lose its normal anatomical relationship and functional status, resulting in joint instability and making sprains more likely. Symptoms such as pain, swelling, and limited movement may occur. Minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery is generally recommended to repair damaged ligament tissue, along with rehabilitation training to restore joint function.
5. Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by reduced bone mass and microstructural bone damage, leading to increased bone fragility and susceptibility to fractures or cracks. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, and localized tenderness. Treatment should follow medical advice and may involve medications such as calcitriol and calcium lactate tablets, alendronate sodium tablets, and zoledronic acid injection to alleviate symptoms.
To prevent ankle sprains, attention should be paid to exercise safety, avoiding walking on uneven or slippery surfaces, strengthening muscle strength and joint stability, and undergoing regular physical examinations to assess bone and joint health.
