Paul Ryan
Our ankles bear a lot of stress, supporting our stability through a complex structure of bones, ligaments, and tendons. Here’s what you need to know about common ankle injuries and treatments.
Ankle sprains
The two main ligaments that stabilize your ankle can be injured when you sprain your ankle. An ankle sprain occurs when one or both ligaments are stretched or torn.
The initial treatment for a sprain follows the “RICE” method: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation and includes immobilizing the ankle with a brace, boot, or secure taping. Depending on the severity, ankle sprains are classified into three grades:
• Grade I: A mild stretch of the ligament
• Grade II: A partial tear
• Grade III: A complete tear
While the treatment for all grades is the same in the beginning, recovery time varies. For more severe sprains, physical therapy is recommended to help “retrain” the ankle, focusing on balance, range of motion, and strength.
In rare cases, when the ligaments do not heal properly, an orthopedic surgeon may evaluate your ankle for possible surgical treatment.
Ankle arthritis
Ankle arthritis causes chronic pain in the joint, often due to previous injuries or other factors like inflammation or infection. Although it can’t be cured, several treatments can help manage symptoms and maintain an active lifestyle.
Initial treatments may include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, shoe modifications, and orthotics. In more severe cases, injections or surgery may be necessary.
Trying a permanent or semi-permanent brace can sometimes help determine the best course of action before surgery is considered.
Achilles injuries
Although technically not an ankle injury, Achilles tendon issues can affect ankle function. Symptoms like pain, swelling, and stiffness around the ankle or heel can be caused by Achilles tendinopathy (a wear-and-tear injury) or a rupture.
Treatment options include RICE, physical therapy, regenerative medicine, or surgery, depending on the injury’s severity. If you experience ankle pain, treatment options are available to help you recover and return to your active life.
Paul Ryan is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and foot and ankle specialist seeing patients in South Lake Tahoe, Stateline, and Carson City. For information, call 530-543-5554 or visit BartonHealth.org.