Ankle Sprains (e.g., ATFL, CFL Injuries): Treatment and Rehabilitation at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health

What are Ankle Sprains?

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle joint are stretched beyond their normal range, causing damage. The two main ligaments involved in most ankle sprains are:

• Anterior Talofibular Ligament (ATFL): This ligament connects the fibula to the talus bone at the front of the ankle. It is the most commonly injured ligament in lateral ankle sprains.

• Calcaneofibular Ligament (CFL): This ligament connects the fibula to the heel bone (calcaneus). It is often injured in more severe ankle sprains.

These injuries can range from mild stretching of the ligaments to more severe tears.

Symptoms of Ankle Sprains

The symptoms of an ankle sprain can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Common signs include:

• Pain and Tenderness: Pain is typically felt on the outside of the ankle, especially when the joint is moved or touched.

• Swelling: Swelling around the ankle joint is common, especially within the first few hours after the injury.

• Bruising: Discoloration can develop around the injured area as a result of bleeding beneath the skin.

• Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the ankle joint or putting weight on the injured foot.

• Instability: A feeling of weakness or instability in the ankle, especially when walking or standing on uneven surfaces.

Causes and Risk Factors

Common Causes

• Twisting or Rolling the Ankle: Sudden movements like twisting, turning, or rolling the ankle during physical activity can overstretch the ligaments.

• Uneven Surfaces: Walking or running on uneven surfaces increases the risk of spraining an ankle.

• Sports Activities: High-impact sports such as basketball, soccer, and running often result in ankle sprains due to sudden changes in direction.

• Lack of Proper Footwear: Wearing shoes that don't provide adequate support or stability can increase the risk of injury.

Risk Factors

• Previous Ankle Injury: If you’ve had a previous sprain, the ligaments may be weakened, increasing the likelihood of future sprains.

• Weak Ankle Muscles: Weak or imbalanced muscles around the ankle joint can make the area more prone to injury.

• Improper Warm-Up: Failing to properly stretch and prepare the muscles and ligaments before physical activity can increase injury risk.

• Age: Younger athletes may be at higher risk of injury due to active participation in sports, while older adults may have decreased joint stability and flexibility.

Diagnosis of Ankle Sprains

Diagnosing an ankle sprain typically involves a physical examination by a physiotherapist, who will assess the severity of the injury and determine the best course of treatment.

Clinical Examination:

• Palpation: The physiotherapist will gently press on the ligaments and surrounding structures to locate areas of tenderness.

• Movement Tests: The range of motion in the ankle will be checked to identify limitations and pain points.

• Stress Tests: Special tests are used to assess the stability of the ligaments, specifically the ATFL and CFL.

Imaging:

• X-rays: In some cases, X-rays may be used to rule out fractures, as sprained ankles can sometimes be mistaken for bone breaks.

• MRI or Ultrasound: In severe cases, an MRI or ultrasound may be used to assess the extent of ligament damage.

Treatment Options for Ankle Sprains

Conservative Management (Non-Surgical Treatment)

The majority of ankle sprains can be managed without surgery. The primary treatment approaches include:

• Rest: Taking a break from weight-bearing activities allows the ligaments to heal.

• Ice: Applying ice to the injured area helps reduce swelling and pain, especially during the first 48 hours.

• Compression: Using a compression bandage can help minimize swelling and provide support to the ankle.

• Elevation: Elevating the ankle above heart level helps reduce swelling by encouraging fluid drainage.

Physiotherapy Treatment:

• Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques, including joint mobilizations and soft tissue massage, can help alleviate pain and improve mobility.

• Strengthening Exercises: Once the acute phase has passed, strengthening exercises for the ankle muscles are critical to restore function and stability.

• Proprioception Training: Exercises designed to improve balance and coordination, which are important for preventing future sprains.

Surgical Treatment

In cases of severe sprains or when the ligaments are completely ruptured, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage. This is more common in cases of complete ligament tears or chronic instability.

Rehabilitation at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health

Rehabilitation for an ankle sprain is key to ensuring a full recovery and preventing future injuries. At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we design personalized rehabilitation plans based on the severity of your injury and your goals.

Post-Injury Rehabilitation:

• Pain Management: Treatments like ice, heat, and electrical stimulation may be used to manage pain and inflammation.

• Range of Motion: Gradual exercises to improve ankle flexibility and reduce stiffness.

• Strengthening: Focused exercises to rebuild strength in the ankle muscles and ligaments.

Functional Rehabilitation:

• Return to Sport: Specific exercises and drills are introduced to safely return you to sports or other high-intensity activities.

• Ankle Bracing/Taping: Wearing an ankle brace or using kinesiology tape can help support the ligaments and prevent further injury during recovery.

• Sport-Specific Training: Once your ankle is healed, functional exercises that simulate movements from your sport or activity will be used to reintroduce your ankle to its demands.

Preventing Ankle Sprains

Preventing ankle sprains involves strengthening the muscles around the ankle and taking steps to avoid injury during physical activities:

• Warm Up Properly: Always warm up and stretch before exercising to prepare your muscles and ligaments.

• Strengthen the Ankle: Regular exercises to strengthen the muscles of the lower leg and ankle improve stability and reduce the risk of sprains.

• Wear Proper Footwear: Choose shoes that provide proper arch support, cushioning, and stability, particularly during sports.

• Ankle Taping/Bracing: For individuals with a history of sprains, taping or bracing the ankle can help prevent future injuries during high-risk activities.

Why Choose Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health?

At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we specialize in the treatment and rehabilitation of ankle sprains. Our expert physiotherapists are equipped with the skills and knowledge to help you recover from ATFL and CFL injuries. We create personalized treatment plans to ensure you get back on your feet safely and quickly.

Contact Us Today

If you’ve suffered from an ankle sprain or want to prevent one, contact us today. Our skilled physiotherapists at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health are ready to help you recover. Call our clinics in Malaga or Noranda to book an appointment and begin your recovery journey.