A sprained ankle is not only very painful, but can also be disabling for those who are unlucky enough to have one. For physios and patients alike, it has traditionally been common to hear the phrase ‘just a sprained ankle’ each time one is observed.
But what about when it begins as a seemingly simple sprained ankle, turning out to be something much worse?
But what about when it begins as a seemingly simple sprained ankle, turning out to be something much worse?
Sadly, the above observation has been shown to be quite far from the truth. It is common to see sufferers of this condition some months down the track, often those who at the time of their injury decided their ankle would simply sort itself out. Or in many cases, a recurrence has occurred, but the sufferer has ultimately decided to see someone about their pesky ankle.
Long Term Ankle Sprain Issues
Many ankle injuries continue to give trouble many months down the track due to ongoing dysfunction, pain, swelling, recurrence and instability. It appears likely that these features occur as a result of a number of occurrences. One of these includes stopping a rehabilitation program too early, or perhaps not starting one at all.
Residual stiffness of the ankle, particularly in weight-bearing, will affect the ankle’s mechanics in everyday use, causing tension on joint structures and pain. Walking patterns are changed often and the loss of joint-position sense will contribute to this as well as an increased risk of going over on the ankle again.
More recently, there has been further interest in neural plasticity, or the way in which the brain and its associated structures adapt to changing circumstances. It appears likely that this process begins in the first few days following your ankle sprain, and can affect tissues far from the ankle, but particularly the hip joint muscular control, in addition to postural changes in the opposite leg resulting in persistent limping.
Residual stiffness of the ankle, particularly in weight-bearing, will affect the ankle’s mechanics in everyday use, causing tension on joint structures and pain. Walking patterns are changed often and the loss of joint-position sense will contribute to this as well as an increased risk of going over on the ankle again.
More recently, there has been further interest in neural plasticity, or the way in which the brain and its associated structures adapt to changing circumstances. It appears likely that this process begins in the first few days following your ankle sprain, and can affect tissues far from the ankle, but particularly the hip joint muscular control, in addition to postural changes in the opposite leg resulting in persistent limping.
SIGNS YOUR SPRAINED ANKLE IS MORE THAN "JUST AN ANKLE SPRAIN"
If you suffer from an ankle sprain, how can you tell if it’s actually serious? And more importantly, how can you tell if it’s worth seeing your doctor?
The Pain Gets Worst While Exercising
This goes without saying. If you are experiencing pain in the affected area while exercising, chances are you have an issue that may require attention – especially if the pain continues getting worse.
You’re Limping Instead of Walking
Regardless of whether your ankle strain was a recent occurrence or happened long ago, limping can be an obvious sign that something is wrong. If you’re limping and cannot walk properly, it could be from any number of issues and may even require physio treatment.
You’re in Pain the Day After
If you sprained your ankle and decided to give it a day or two, but still find that it is causing pain, your best bet is to see a doctor or physio. It is quite common for people to give it a trial but if the pain is significant, you should consult an appropriate health professional as soon as possible.
The Final Word
Unfortunately there appears to be nothing simple about our ankle sprains. We need to lower our expectations about how long these injuries take to get better and raise them about the effort required to completely rehabilitate them. Appropriate treatment and, in particular, exercise and guidance can help address these concerns.
Have you sprained your ankle recently? Perhaps it was weeks ago. Regardless, it’s vital that you get it checked out and ensure you give it the opportunity to become fully rehabilitated. For further information about this issue, get in touch with Physio on Collins.