What are Inversion Ligament Sprains?
Sprained ankles are the most common ankle injury sustained during sport Fong et al 2007). The lateral ligament complex is made up of 3 ligaments which can be torn or ruptured when you forcibly roll over (invert) on your ankle. When this occurs the ankle will be extremely painful, you may not be able to walk on it and it will become very swollen.
Common sports that cause these injuries:
Common Signs & Symptoms
Following this injury the common signs and symptoms are:
- Immediate pain and swelling of the lateral ankle and foot
- Pain on weightbearing or unable to weightbear
- Decreased range of movement of the ankle
What should be done following this injury:
- For severe sprains attend A&E for an assessment as you may need an X-ray to rule out a fracture
- For moderate & minor sprains consult your GP or physiotherapist
- Elevate your ankle
- Use ice or a reusable cold pack to reduce pain and swelling (the recommended time is 10 minutes on with 1 hour off). Never apply ice directly to the skin.
- Depending on the severity of the ankle sprain will determine how long it takes for the ankle to recover and for you to return to sport. Ligament sprains are classified as:
Grade 1 – minor strain of the ligament. Return to sport between 2-4 weeks
Grade 2 – partial rupture of the ligament. Return to sport between 6-12 weeks
Grade 3 – complete rupture of the ligament. Return to sport – seek physiotherapist or orthopaedic consultant opinion.
As your sprain recovers and your ROM improves you will be able to start to walk and run on your ankle. As you start to return to sport you may find an ankle support useful to provide flexible support to the joint.
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The content on this website is provided for general information and reference purposes only and is not intended to substitute for advice given by a physician, pharmacist, or other licensed health-care professional. You should not use this information as self-diagnosis or for treating a health problem or disease. All exercises and information featured on this web site should only be reviewed/practised under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Products suggestions linked to injuries may be provided on the site but you must always refer to the product page for full product details and always consult a physician before use as the indications outlined may not always be relevant to your particular injury/condition.