Ankle Ligament Injury

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 lateral collateral ligaments is made up of 3 individual bands which are located in the front(Anterior talofibular ligament) middle(Calcaneofibular ligament) and back(Posterior talofibular Ligament) of the outer part of the ankle.

The medial collateral ligament which is also called deltoid ligament has all its bands mass around the same area(inner part of the ankle) which make it more thicker and stronger than the lateral collateral ligaments. That’s why the medial collateral ligaments are seldom affected but the lateral collateral ligaments are more vulnerable to be injured relatively.

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: t o 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, placing stressed muscles and tendons in a physiologically restful state.

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.

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