Ankle Instability
by Scott Resig, M.D.
Each day over 20,000 Americans sprain their ankle. About 90 % of these people will recover without residual symptoms; however 10-15% will continue to have problems with the ankle.
The true definition of a sprain is an injury to a ligament, or the tissue that holds adjacent bones together. Ankle sprains are broken down into three grades. A grade one ankle sprain is a minor injury to the ligament that does not result in a complete tear nor does it result in any elongation of the ligament. A grade two sprain is slightly more severe because it elongates the ligament but does not completely tear the ligament. Grade three sprains are the most severe of the ankle sprains and these often involve tearing of more than one ligament.
Most patients can be treated with rest, ice, compression, and occasionally immobilization for a period of time. Physical therapy can be helpful in reducing swelling and strengthening the supporting muscles that stabilize the ankle. Ankle sprains can take up to three months to reach a full recovery. If one continues to have problems, then further work up may be required.
Residual problems range from unrecognized fractures, tendon tears, recurrent instability, nerve injuries and more. An MRI or perhaps another imaging study can often be helpful in recognizing some of these hidden problems.
Scott Resig M.D. is an Orthopedic surgeon with Denver-Vail Orthopedics. He specializes in disorders of the foot and ankle and sports medicine.