Managing An Ankle Sprain

A sprain is defined as a stretch, shear or tear of the ligament. Depending on how far or fast an ankle is sprained can determine the extent of the injury.

The most common type of sprained ankle is an inversion sprain. This happens when your foot rolls inward and the lateral (or side) of your foot gets stretched.

Grades of Ankle Ligament Sprains

• First Degree - a stretch or minor tear of the ligament, accompanied by mild swelling, bruising and tenderness. Minor pain with walking
• Second Degree - an incomplete tear of the ligament accompanied by moderate swelling, bruising and tenderness. Walking is painful.
• Third Degree - complete tear or rupture of the ligament accompanied by severe swelling, bruising and tenderness. Walking is very difficult if not impossible because the ankle is unstable. 

Physical Therapy for Grade 2 and Grade 3 Ankle Sprains

How your physical therapist treats your ankle (and how you manage it at home) is largely dependent on the grade and how far along in your recovery you already are. Second and third degree sprains are sometimes immobilized in an air cast or walking boot for a period of time. Third degree sprains are going to take longer to heal.

There are gentle, non weight bearing exercises you can do while wearing a boot to improve healing to the ligament. 

Physical Therapy for Grade 1 Ankle Sprains

Managing a grade 1 ankle sprain is very doable. Bracing and casting is not recommended, but instead full range of motion exercises is the best recipe for success. Gentle isometric exercises initially to build up strength and promote healing. Your physical therapist will guide you in the best ones for your injury.

RICE Acronym for healing Ankle Sprains

Don't forget to RICE: Rest, ice, compression and elevation in the first 48-72 hours after an injury. To be clear, bracing and compression serve different purposes. The brace provides stability and limits range of motion where as an ace bandage for compression helps with swelling. Elevate the ankle ABOVE the heart, not just at heart level to reduce swelling. That means propping that foot up on several pillows.

Your physical therapist will help tailor your recovery to your specific injury however your body will also help guide you. Don't forget to listen to it.

Physical therapy for a sprained ankle in Brookhaven and Atlanta, GA

If you have ankle pain reach out to our office today!