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Foot & Ankle Services

Orthopedic Expertise to Treat Foot and Ankle Ligament Sprains

Ligaments are bands of fibrous tissue that connect bones to other bones and stabilize joints. There are ligaments throughout the body, including several in the foot and ankle that connect the foot bones to the lower leg bones.

Foot and ankle ligaments play an important role in stabilizing the ankle joint and preventing it from twisting, folding or moving in any unsafe or unnatural direction. They also serve as shock absorbers during any weight-bearing movements like walking or running. If any of these ligaments are stretched too far too often, it can result in a ligament sprain.


Schedule an Appointment

The orthopedic specialists at University Hospitals have the advanced skills and experience to treat all foot and ankle conditions, including ligament sprains. To schedule an appointment, call 216-220-9088 or schedule online.

Symptoms of an Ankle Ligament Sprain

Ligament sprains in the foot and ankle are a common injury. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:

  • Bruising, swelling and pain around the ankle joint.
  • Ankle weakness.
  • Popping sounds when the ankle is moved.
  • Difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot.

Diagnosis of Foot and Ankle Ligament Sprains

If you have recently twisted your ankle and are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, you should be evaluated by a foot and ankle specialist. Your provider will ask about what you were doing when the symptoms started and conduct a physical exam of the injured foot.

An X-ray will likely be taken to determine if the injury is limited to the ligaments or if the ankle bones are also affected. If there is no evidence of bone breaks or stress fractures and the pain persists, an MRI might be recommended for more detailed images of the ligaments.


Treatments for Ankle Ligament Sprains

Treatment for an ankle ligament sprain will vary greatly depending on the severity of the injury and the degree to which it interferes with your ability to function. Most ankle ligament sprains can be managed with conservative treatment, including:

  • Rest with the injured leg elevated.
  • Icing of the injured area to reduce swelling.
  • Compression with an elastic bandage.
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen.
  • Use of a medical boot to hold the ankle in place while it heals.
  • Physical therapy to strengthen the ankle joint.

Simple ligament sprains usually resolve with conservative treatment. However, if the ligament is partially or completely torn, surgery is usually recommended to repair the injured ligament.

Make an Appointment

Our orthopedic experts offer in-person and virtual visits. Call 216-220-9088 or schedule your visit online today.