Sports Medicine
Ankle sprain
Ankle sprains: causes, treatment and healing strategies
An ankle sprain, also known as an ankle sprain, is one of the most common sports injuries, especially in sports such as basketball, soccer, or handball. This injury usually occurs due to a sudden twisting of the foot, which can lead to overstretching or even a tear of the ligaments in the ankle. Current research and practice place great emphasis on early and targeted treatment to prevent complications and accelerate the healing process.
Origin and severity
In an ankle sprain, the foot typically bends over the outer edge (supination trauma) or the inner edge (pronation trauma). The severity of the injury is divided into three grades:
- Grade I: Slight strain of the ligaments, minimal bruising, mobility is hardly restricted.
- Grade II: Partial tear of one or more ligaments, significant bruising, limited mobility and ability to bear weight.
- Grade III: Complete ligament tear, severe swelling and pain, the foot is barely able to bear any weight.
Severe ankle injuries (grades II and III), if not adequately treated, can lead to chronic instability, persistent pain, and recurrent injuries.
Acute treatment: The importance of the PECH rule
Immediate treatment after an injury can significantly influence the healing process. The PECH rule – rest, ice, compression, elevation – is the standard recommendation. Current studies show that brief, complete unloading of the joint in the first few days after the injury can accelerate the healing process. This is especially true for more severe sprains, as it protects the ligaments and minimizes the risk of re-injury. During this time, the use of crutches is essential. However, this results in an increased risk of thrombosis, which should definitely be discussed with a doctor so that protective measures, such as anti-thrombosis injections, can be implemented if necessary.
- Pause: Avoid any strain on the affected foot to protect the ligaments.
- Ice: Cooling reduces swelling and pain. It is recommended to apply it for 15-20 minutes every 1-2 hours.
- Compression: An elastic bandage can reduce swelling and support the tissue.
- Elevated storage: Elevating the foot facilitates blood flow and reduces swelling.
Functional therapy and rehabilitation
New scientific findings support functional rehabilitation for Grade II and Grade III sprains, which begins after the acute unloading phase. This means gradually introducing mobilization and targeted physiotherapy exercises to strengthen and stabilize the ankle. For severe injuries, it is recommended to initially stabilize the joint with a brace and then perform targeted rehabilitation training over several weeks. This training reduces long-term instability and minimizes the risk of re-injury.
In addition, manual lymphatic drainage in the first few days after the injury can help reduce swelling more quickly and improve joint mobility.
Conclusion
The treatment of ankle sprains requires immediate and consistent implementation of the PECH rule to minimize swelling and pain. Current research highlights the importance of short-term, complete unloading of the joint to optimize the healing process. For more severe injuries, long-term rehabilitation is crucial to ensure full recovery of joint function and prevent future injuries.