March 2, 2023 Author : José Pedro Marques The most common injury in sports is ankle sprains. In some sports, it represents almost half of the injuries; This is the case, for example, with basketball and volleyball. A sprain is an injury to the ligaments in a joint. In the case of the ankle, the sprain most often affects the ligaments on the lateral (or external) face of the joint. Diagnosis of ankle sprain The diagnosis of an ankle sprain is clinical, that is, it is based on: In the history spontaneously reported by the affected person and in his answers to the doctor questions; In results suggestive of a sprain obtained in the objective examination carried out by the doctor. It is very important to have a clinical evaluation or re-evaluation on the fifth or sixth day after the injury . At this point, it is possible a more precise determination of the injury degree (grade 1 - mild, grade 2 - moderate, grade 3 - severe) and its severity, which is related to the necessary interventions and recovery time. In specific cases, imaging tests may be required. The history Usually those who have suffered an ankle sprain say: A typical injury mechanism; Pain located in the anterolateral region of the ankle; In some cases, inability to walk. The objective examination In the objective examination it is usual to identify: Edema and hematoma at the injury site; Pain induced by palpation of the affected ligaments; Pain on passive joint movements. Imaging exams In many cases, imaging tests are not necessary to diagnose an ankle sprain. However, in some cases, the doctor may order imaging tests. Radiography, commonly known as X-ray, plays an important role in the acute phase, to rule out possible associated fractures. In the subacute or chronic phases of sprains whose clinical evolution is not favorable, an ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging may be indicated to exclude the possibility of injuries that went unnoticed in the initial assessment. Treatment In the acute phase, interventions are aimed at reducing pain and inflammation . For this it is important: The joint protection; To optimize the load, a very relevant issue because, contrary to what was previously advocated, it is now known that immobilization must be maintained for the shortest possible time; To apply ice, compress and keep the joint higher than the rest of the body. When there is pain, analgesia with medication may be indicated following the doctor instructions. After the acute phase, the focus should be on therapeutic options whose effectiveness is known . Rehabilitation programs focusing on strengthening the muscles that stabilize the joint; Balance and coordination training; Progressive introduction of exercises that promote normal joint functionality. In addition to this neuromuscular training, functional support measures, such as ankle orthoses and tape immobilizations, which allow movement while protecting the injury, may play an important role in the first months after an ankle sprain. Prevent further ankle sprains It is known that people who suffer an ankle sprain are more likely to repeat it in the following 6-12 months. This period appears to be the time frame during which the injured ligaments are weakened; Also during this period, orthoses, tape immobilizations and neuromuscular training are effective options to prevent recurrence of ankle sprains. If you practice sports, even recreationally, and you have sprained your ankle, be sure to ask your doctor for advice so that your recovery goes as smoothly as possible . Meet the sports medicine clinical team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
