Ankle Sprain

What is an Ankle Sprain?

An ankle sprain is a common injury in which the ligaments are stretched or torn. Ligaments are bands or sheets of fibrous tissue that connect two or more bones or cartilages. They also serve as a support for fasciae and muscles.

Ankle Sprain Symptoms

The following are symptoms of an ankle sprain:

• Swelling/Puffiness
• Redness
• Bruising
• Increased Pain when Shifting Weight
• Warmth in the Ankle
• Restricted Ankle Mobility

Ankle Sprain Grades

There are 3 grades of ankle sprains:

• 1st degree - Mild injury, pain, and moderate to severe swelling. Stretch of Anterior Talofibular Ligament (no macroscopic tear). Functionally intact.
• 2nd degree - Moderate injury with moderate-to-severe swelling. Partial Anterior Talofibular Ligament and Calcaneofibular Ligament macroscopic tears. Less functionally intact. Weight bearing is difficult due to moderate/extreme pain.
• 3rd degree - Severe injury and pain with diffuse swelling. Anterior Talofibular Ligament, Calcaneofibular Ligament, and Posterior Talofibular Ligament are all completely torn. Gross instability and near or complete loss of motion and function.

Causes of an Ankle Sprain

Most people will have a sprained ankle at some point in his or her life. Usually, it will be an inversion sprain; this is also commonly known as "rolling an ankle." It is a typical injury that occurs when playing sports, climbing steps, and in slip and fall accidents.

Ankle Sprain Consequences

Besides discomfort and pain, an ankle sprain may also cause some degree of difficulty with normal walking. Depending on a person's job, it may be necessary to receive a note from a physician requesting light duty if bending or lifting is required.

Ankle Sprain Treatment

The RICE method is usually useful in treating a sprain.

• R - Rest
• I - Ice
• C - Compression
• E - Elevation

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or acetaminophen, can also help with the pain and swelling. If necessary, use an ankle brace or support in addition to strengthening and range of motion exercises. Once the swelling and pain start to diminish, it is highly recommended to start doing exercises for the ankle in order to regain full mobility and functionality. In severe and rare cases, a cast or, possibly, surgery may be required.

Contact Us

If you or a loved one has experienced ankle sprain, please contact our Foot Injury Attorneys for a free, personal, and confidential consultation. You can contact the Law Offices of Michael Cordova at 602-265-6700.

Our attorneys not only work on ankle sprain cases but in other personal injury areas, as well as criminal defense and DUI, dog bites, wrongful death, car accidents, motorcycle accidents, and product and premises liability, so please contact your local Phoenix attorneys for a free consultation.

*Contingent fees are charged on total recovery. **No Fee Guarantee applies in the event there is no recovery.