Introduction
The ligaments of the ankle joint are comprised mainly of the medial (inner) and lateral (outer) collateral ligaments. These are extremely important in the stability of the ankle.
The outer or lateral collateral ligament comprises of:
In the front is Anteriortalo-fibular ligament
In the middle is Calcaneo-fibular ligament
At the back is Posterior talo-fibular Ligament
The inner or medial collateral ligament is thicker and stronger than the outer ligament as all its bands mass around the inner part of the ankle.That’s why it’s relatively common to see lateral ligament injuries whereas the medial ligament is seldom affected. Since Lateral ligaments are the commonly injured ones, we’ll focus on these injuries.
Causes
Inward twist of the ankle is the most common cause for the lateral collateral ligaments injury which could happen when walking with high heel shoes, landing on the uneven ground, playing some sports such as basketball and so on.
Symptoms
Depending on how serious the ankle sprain was, the symptoms of ligament injury may include the following:

Pain on the outer side of the ankle which gets aggravated by pressing or inward stretching of the ankle.

Swelling

Redness and warmth

Limping because of the pain

Treatment
The aim is to reduce the inflammation and swelling and lessen the pain and help healing.
Medical treatment – The doctor may prescribe some anti-inflammatories and pain killers if necessary.
Physiotherapy –

Cryotherapy: to reduce the inflammation and swelling.

Ultrasound : to reduce inflammation, promotes healing, increase blood circulation of this area and prevent the adhesion inside.

Interferrential : to relieve the pain and decrease the inflammation .

Laser: aids in pain management and helps with wound healing.

Ankle Taping: Taping or strapping supports the ankle, reducing the stress from the involved muscles and tendons .

Friction massage: to break up the scar tissue and prevent the adhesion.

Exercises : to maintain the joint’s range of motion and muscle strength to improve the functional ability to get the patient back to the normal daily activities

Self-Help Tips

Rest and elevate the affected leg to prevent further injury and reduce the swelling.

Use ice pack on it to reduce the inflammation and swelling.

Use an ankle brace.

Use a good supportive shoe.

Experienced physiotherapists in Singapore, with over 18 years of experience, help you to get relief from pain/weakness quickly and easily. You can book an appointment to see our Senior Physiotherapist. We are located right in the heart of Singapore, at Orchard, and are available Mondays through Saturday.