An ankle is made up of multiple joints that stabilize the lower leg onto the foot.  With the many joints that make up the ankle it helps move the foot inward, outward, point(plantarflex), and bring the foot up towards the head(dorsiflex).  All those movements are supported by ligaments.  When there is a sprain the ligaments are stretched past the capacity which results in a “sprain”.  Anyone can incur an ankle sprain but most commonly people that are more active – athletes, runners, cyclists, hockey players, soccer players, football players, basketball players, and individuals who have a more active and physical job.

Symptoms of an ankle sprain typically have ache pain, sharp pain, lingering dull pain.  The ankle will typically swell at the site of injury which will cause pressure and discomfort in the ankle and foot.  Bruising will occur as well in the ankle and into the foot.  Most will find it difficult to apply pressure into the foot with standing, walking, and supporting oneself on the foot.  A decrease in range of motion from pain and swelling will typically happen as well.  If left untreated the sprain can become worse and swelling and pain can become more intense.  This can lead to tearing of the ligaments and injury in other areas of the ankle as well.

The best course of action for this injury is to seek professional help.  A professional will be able to evaluate and diagnose the injury which will help them build a specific treatment plan for the individual as well as the injury.  A proper treatment plan for this injury would include manual therapies to help mediate the muscular and ligament stress which helps with movement and pain management.  Mobilization and manipulation the pelvis, hip and knee joint to keep fluid movement through the joints to avoid restriction of movement and range of motion issues.  Stabilization and strength programming to help build muscular and ligament support as well as prevent further and future injury.  And finally, a good self-care program that will give the individual control on managing the issue themselves.