Ankle Sprains, Strains & Other Injuries
Ankle sprains and strains are injuries that occur from falling, tripping, twisting or taking a wrong step. They do not involve the bone as with an ankle fracture. They affect the ligaments, muscles and tendons that surround the ankle bones.
Schedule an Appointment
The orthopedic specialists at University Hospitals have the advanced skills and experience to treat all foot and ankle conditions, including ankle sprains, strains and other injuries. To schedule an appointment, call 216-220-9088 or schedule online.
Types of Sprained Ankles
Sprained ankles are caused by damage to the ligaments that connect the bones in the ankle joint. They can happen to anyone, but are most commonly associated with jumping sports like basketball, volleyball and soccer. There are three main types of ankle sprains, including:
- Inversion sprain. The most common type of ankle sprain, an inversion sprain occurs when the ankle rolls inward.
- Eversion sprain. Less common than inversion sprains, this type of sprain occurs when the ankle rolls outward.
- High ankle sprain. Also known as an external rotation injury, this type of sprain affects the ligament between the long bones in the lower leg (fibula and tibia). It often occurs when you land incorrectly from a jump and is a common sports injury.
Symptoms of a Sprained Ankle
Symptoms of a sprained ankle can range from mild to severe and may include:
- Pain in and around the ankle joint
- Swelling and tenderness
- Bruising or skin discoloration
- Inability to put weight on the foot
Ankle strains are usually less serious than a sprained ankle and are often referred to as a pulled muscle. The symptoms of a strain may be similar, but they are typically less severe and resolve more quickly.
If pain persists for more than a few days, you should be evaluated for a foot and ankle specialist.
Diagnosis & Treatment
In addition to taking a full medical and lifestyle history, your doctor will perform a physical exam of your foot and ask about your symptoms and how the injury occurred. An X-ray may be done to rule out an ankle fracture, which may require more advanced treatment or surgery.
Recommended treatments are usually conservative and may include:
- Rest and elevation.
- Icing the area for 15–20 minutes every 2–3 hours while you're awake.
- Compressing the ankle with an elastic bandage to reduce swelling.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen.
Other Types of Ankle Injuries We Diagnose and Treat
- Ankle Fractures and Broken Ankles: A partial or complete break in the bones of the ankle joint.
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of a tendon, which connects muscles to bones, caused by overuse.
- Stress fractures: Tiny cracks in the bone that develop over time from overuse.
Make an Appointment
Our orthopedic experts offer in-person and virtual visits. Call 216-220-9088 or schedule your visit online today.