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The recovery of an ankle sprain takes time and depends on the severity of the injury.
Usually, full recovery takes at least 3-4 weeks, but in some cases it may take up to 6 months.Therefore, it is critical to obtain an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan to ensure successful healing.
Working with your physician and a qualified physical therapist is essential to manage both initial treatment and long-term rehabilitation.These professionals will be able to assess the extent of the injury and recommend steps to promote healing.
What typically causes an ankle sprain?
There are several causes that can cause an ankle sprain. Some people can remember exactly when the injury occurred, while others have to make an effort to remember what they were doing and how it affected the ankle.
Common causes of ankle sprains include: walking or running on uneven surfaces, falling while playing sports that require quick movements or twisting of the foot, or acting awkwardly while jumping or landing heavy on the foot or ankle. These types of movements and activities involve the foot or lower leg. Another cause of ankle sprains can be a previous sprain.
According to the AAO (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons), once one has suffered an ankle sprain, it is more likely to occur again, especially if the ligaments have not fully healed.
An ankle sprain can occur when a sudden force or rotational movement forces the ankle joint to move from its normal position.This can lead to a dislocation of one or more ligaments in this area. Ligaments are fibrous tissues that connect bones together and provide stability to joints.When ligaments stretch or rupture due to a sprain, instability of the joint occurs, which can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty in walking or performing normal daily activities.
Types of ankle sprains and associated healing times
The types of ankle sprains can vary and the associated healing time depends on the severity of the injury- In general, the more severe the sprain, the longer the recovery period.
When you are diagnosed with an ankle sprain, it is natural to wonder how severe it is and how long it will take to fully return to fitness.
The severity of a sprain can range from mild to severe and is often graded.
- Grade 1 sprain: a mild ligament tear that causes swelling and mild pain. It usually takes about 3 weeks to heal, but recovery can vary from person to person.
- Second-degree sprain: involves a partial tear of the ligament, with more swelling, pain and loss of mobility. Recovery can take 4 to 6 weeks.
- Third-degree sprain: a complete ligament tear that takes much longer to heal. This sprain can take 3 to 6 months to fully recover.
Note that these are only approximate healing times and actual recovery may vary from person to person. Some people may need more time to heal, while others may recover more quickly.
Ankle sprain: what is the best way to treat it?
The best way to treat an ankle sprain is to follow an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan. Indeed, it is important that an ankle sprain is not misdiagnosed or undertreated. If identified and treated correctly, many complications can be avoided with an appropriate physical therapy program.
The first step after an injury is to practice the R.I.C.E. method:
- R: rest the ankle to prevent further injury
- I: apply ice to the area for 20 minutes, three to four times a day
- C: compress the ankle with an elastic bandage, if necessary
- E: elevate the ankle to reduce swelling
If surgery is not necessary, the recovery and rehabilitation phase can be progressed. In the first two weeks after injury, there may be a rapid decrease in pain and improvement in ankle motion and function. Some people can return to daily activities within one to three weeks, but others may continue to experience pain for up to a year after the injury.
If an ankle sprain is not treated properly, the ligament may heal improperly, increasing the risk of future injury. In addition, limitations in ankle mobility may occur due to talus stiffness and possible displacement of the fibula. In these cases, an experienced physical therapist can perform manipulations to restore normal motion and function. It is important to return to natural walking as soon as possible to avoid further problems.
For faster recovery and to prevent further injury, it is advisable to follow a rehabilitation program supervised by a physical therapist. This will speed up the recovery process, increase confidence and strength in the ankle, and prevent recurrence of sprains.
A good rehabilitation program should include restoration of range of motion, strengthening exercises, and specific training for balance and control.
These elements are essential to speed recovery and prevent chronic ankle instability.
What is the best way to prevent ankle sprains?
This problem can affect both athletes and physically active people, so it is crucial to take preventive measures to prevent it from occurring or recurring.
To prevent ankle sprains, it is important to pay attention to the surfaces on which you walk or run, avoiding uneven or slippery ground. In addition, it is advisable to wear appropriate footwear that provides adequate support and stability to the foot. Ankle strengthening and stretching exercises can help improve joint stability and prevent injury.
According to a 2014 study, there is a correlation between ankle sprains and weakness of the gluteal or trunk muscles. This weakness could cause the ankle to roll and, as a result, sprain. Fortunately, again according to the study, balance training can prove to be a valuable aid in preventing this type of injury. For example, exercises such as balancing on one foot can be particularly helpful.
It is also recommended to follow a strength-training program that includes specific exercises for the ankle. Elastic band work, for example, can help strengthen the muscles that support this part of the body. Stretching is also important, as it improves the flexibility and mobility of the ankle.In addition to specific exercises, it is also advisable to maintain good posture during physical activities.Keeping the body aligned and distributing weight evenly can reduce the risk of an ankle sprain.
This article was originally written in Italian and translated English via deepl.com. If you notice a major error in the translation you can write to [email protected] to report it. Your contribution will be greatly appreciated