The ankles, fragile and complex structures in our body, provide the link between the foot and the leg, enabling us to perform the basic movements that guide our daily lives. 

However, the ankle remains vulnerable. 

The slightest joint anomaly, faulty movement or the surprise effect of an irregular surface can lead to a sprain. 

The latter, while not a rare medical incident, can seriously compromise our mobility and quality of life if not properly treated.

What is an ankle sprain?

An ankle sprain is an injury to the ligaments, which are tough, fibrous structures that link bones together. 

This is caused by a sudden, unexpected movement, usually a rotation or false move. 

It causes stretching or even tearing of these ankle ligaments, often resulting in intense pain, swelling and bruising.

Sprains occur when considerable pressure is exerted on a ligament or tendon, usually by twisting the foot. 

This pressure plays an important role in sports accidents, such as foot seizure, walking on an uneven surface during a hike, or a wrong move during a soccer match. 

However, it can also occur in everyday life, following a fall or a wrong step on the stairs, for example.

Statistics on ankle sprains

Ankle sprains are far from exceptional. 

They are even among the most frequent musculoskeletal pathologies. 

It is estimated that no fewer than 25,000 people suffer a sprained ankle every day. 

This injury affects more than 9 million people every year, and accounts for around 10% of all traumas treated in emergency departments.

Common mistakes after an ankle sprain

It's sometimes tempting to downplay the pain and carry on moving your ankle as if nothing had happened. 

Many people believe that pain passes with time, which is why complications from poorly healed sprains are frequent and costly. Immediate rest, ice, elevation of the ankle with compression, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) if possible, are the most sensible approach to care.

This is known as the RICE method (Repos, Ice, Compression, Elevation). 

If the pain is severe, a consultation with a health care professional is important, in order to diagnose the problem and determine whether the joint should be managed or immobilized.

Causes and symptoms of ankle sprains

Let's decipher the origins and characteristic signs of an ankle sprain, often triggered by sudden movements, risky sporting activities or harmless accidents, and likely to cause severe complications if not treated properly. 👇

Common causes of ankle sprains

Ankle sprains are generally caused by a sudden twisting of the foot, for example when walking or running on an uneven surface. 

Sports involving pivot movements, such as soccer or basketball, can also put a strain on ankle ligaments and lead to sprains.

Sometimes it's as simple as a clumsy movement, such as tripping over an object or clumsily descending a staircase. 

People who have already sprained an ankle are also more likely to do so again if the healing has not gone well.

Classic symptoms of an ankle sprain

The symptoms of an ankle sprain vary according to the extent of the sprain and its degree of severity. 

However, the most common symptoms include acute pain at the time of injury, which may then subside to give way to dull, continuous pain. 

It's often difficult to put your foot down and walk. 

Swelling and bruising are also common and indicate a higher severity of sprain, often necessitating X-rays to see if it's accompanied by a fracture. restriction of ankle movement. 

In the most severe cases, it may even be impossible to move the ankle. Professionals trained in this field will help you understand and manage the situation.

Possible complications if left untreated

If an ankle sprain is not treated properly, it can lead to ankle instability and a tendency to re-sprain, or it can impair the function of the whole leg, affecting the knee, hip and lower back. In the longer term, it can even lead to joint osteoarthritis in all these joints.

What's more, as pain and swelling limit mobility, this can lead to weaker, less-used muscles. 

That's why it's important to consult a healthcare professional who will be able to recommend a suitable treatment plan, normally including strict rehabilitation to prevent recurrence and complications.

How can chiropractic help relieve an ankle sprain?

Find out how chiropractic can provide effective relief and promote healing in ankle sprains. 👇

The chiropractic approach to ankle sprains

Chiropractic offers a non-invasive approach to managing pain and promoting recovery from ankle sprains. Above all, it provides a diagnosis that precedes a treatment plan tailored to the injury in question.

By encouraging the body's innate ability to heal itself, the chiropractor helps optimize this process. 

At Chiro-Ste Rose we use a variety of techniques to improve ankle mobility and function while reducing pain and swelling. 

This may involve manual adjustments, ultrasound therapy, trigger point therapy and rehabilitation exercises.

The benefits of chiropractic care for ankle sprains

There are many benefits to choosing chiropractic care to manage an ankle sprain. 

This care can help reduce the duration of your disability and speed up the healing process by improving blood circulation and the delivery of nutrients needed for repair. 

In addition, our approach aims to prevent future complications by promoting full recovery and rehabilitating the ankle to prevent future instability. 

What's more, unlike painkillers, chiropractic care treats the underlying cause of your injury, not just the symptoms, offering a long-term solution. 

Instead, chiropractic is a holistic approach that aims to relieve symptoms by also treating the underlying causes. 

The aim is to enable patients to return to a healthy, active lifestyle while minimizing the risk of long-term complications.

Other tips for ankle wellness

To maintain the health and strength of your ankles, these complementary tips are essential. 

By combining strengthening exercises, a balanced diet, adequate rest and the prevention of repetitive movements, you'll promote optimal healing and reduce the risk of future injury. 👇

✔️ Exercises to strengthen the ankle

Ankle sprains can leave this part of the body in a weakened state, increasing the risk of recurrence. 

To strengthen your ankle and prevent future injuries, we recommend various exercises.

✔️ Flexion and extension exercises

These are simple movements that involve flexing and extending your ankle. 

Perform these movements with your foot on the ground or seated with your leg in the air, depending on your comfort level.

✔️ Ankle rotation

This exercise involves clockwise and counter-clockwise rotations of the ankle. 

This exercise helps improve ankle mobility.

✔️ Alphabet with feet

Try drawing the alphabet with your foot to mobilize all the ankle joints.

It is very important not to force yourself when performing these exercises, to avoid further damage to the ankle. Pain levels of 3/10 are still acceptable.

✔️ Nutrition and healthy living to support healing

Good nutrition can help your body heal faster. Foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, for example, are essential for bone health, while omega-3s help heal ligaments and tendons.

✔️ Hydration and nutrition

Drink enough water throughout the day to stay hydrated and help your body function at its best.

✔️ Get enough rest

Rest is crucial to recovery. Make sure you get enough sleep every night to allow your body to recover.

✔️ Avoid repetitive movements

Don't perform the same movements over a long period to avoid aggravating your injury. Alternate your tasks and movements throughout the day.

When should you consult a professional?

It's important to see a healthcare professional as soon as possible after an ankle injury to avoid future complications. 📅

Persistent pain

If the pain does not improve after a few days' rest, consult a professional to avoid aggravating the situation.

Mobility restrictions

If you have difficulty walking or moving your ankle, it's a sign that it's time to consult a professional.

Swelling or discoloration

Swelling or discoloration of the ankle is a sure sign to seek professional help as soon as possible.

The importance of education in preventing ankle sprains

Good education on ankle sprain prevention is the key to avoiding future injuries. 

We encourage you to remain open to learning and to inform yourself about the preventive measures you can take.

Take control, consult Chiro Ste-Rose

Remember, your health is in your own hands. Don't let an untreated ankle injury stop you from enjoying life to its full potential.

Chiro Ste-Rose is here to help you get back on your feet and resume your daily activities without pain or discomfort. 

We are committed to providing personalized care to help our patients restore their health and well-being.

If you or a loved one suffers from a sprained ankle, don't hesitate to contact us. 📱

Don't wait, take charge of your spinal health today with Clinique Chiro Ste-Rose.