Types of Ankle Injuries
An extremely common occurrence, ankle injuries can affect both athletes and everyday people. Usually, the joint is able to heal without medical intervention; however, in some cases, casts, medications or surgery may be necessary to restore normal function and eliminate pain.
Most Common Types of Ankle Injuries
Sprains are by far the most typical ankle injuries. That said, there are a range of problems, which can impact the ankle joint. These include:
- Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Anterior Ankle Impingement
- Heel Spur
- Calf Muscle Tear
- High Ankle Sprain
- Overuse Injuries
- Muscle Strain
- Pinched Nerve
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Severs Disease
- Sprained Ankle
- Shin Splints
- Stress Fracture
Understanding the Ankle
The ankle joint is the area where three bones converge - the talus (above the heel), the fibula (thin bone outside of leg) and tibia (shin). Passively stabilized by ligaments, the ankle joint is controlled by a series of muscles which both move the foot and prevent the joint from overstretching ligaments. Unfortunately, loss of muscle control can sometimes leave ligaments unprotected, resulting in overstretching that causes a sprain or rupture. In some cases, foot and lower leg injuries can also indirectly impact ankle function, resulting in walking difficulties and compensation injuries.
Ankle injuries are typically categorized by which tissue is injured, i.e. tendon (tendinopathy or tendonitis), muscle (strain or tear), ligament (sprained ankle) or bone (fracture). Treatment varies based on which tissue has been affected.
Treatment for Ankle Injuries
Minor ankle injuries respond well to the RICE treatment strategy, involving rest, ice, compression and elevation. In some cases, however, patients may require medical attention to alleviate pain and restore normal function. To diagnose an ankle injury, a doctor will conduct a physical examination, along with an x-ray in some cases. If the injury is serious, the patient may require a cast, brace, surgery and/or physical therapy.
