What is an Ankle Sprain?

Ankle sprain occurs when there is a tear of either one or both the ligaments that secure the bone in the ankle joint, the bone is forced out of the joint and ankle sprain occurs. They are classified into severe, moderate and mild. The pain is severe if there is a popping sound when your ankle turns and needs medical attention. Minor sprains can be treated at home..

Symptoms of Ankle sprain

• Immediately after the injury swelling appears, pain maybe intense or mild and inability in moving the ankle or putting pressure on it.

Causes of Ankle Sprain

• If the ligaments on the inner side are sprained when the foot turns outward, eversion sprain occurs.
• However inversion sprains are more common and occur when the ligaments on the outside of the ankle is injured when the sole of the foot turns inwards. Runners and basketball players are most affected.

Home remedies for Ankle Sprain

1. Ice should be applied to the sprain immediately for 15mins after every 2hours for 2 days, to reduce bleeding, inflammation and pain.
2. Use crutches for support and avoid pressure on the ankle.
3. Securely but comfortably wrap the ankle in an elastic bandage.
4. To decrease swelling your foot should be elevated slightly higher than the heart, whenever you are resting or sleeping.
5. Acetaminophen helps reducing pain. Inflammation, swelling and pain can be reduced with naproxen, aspirin and ibuprofen.

How can one prevent Ankle Sprains

1. Regular exercising helps to strengthen muscle and avoid sprains.
2. Stretch your calf muscles before and after exercising so that they remain flexible and do not promote twisted ankles.
3. Wear shoes that offer some support and are stable. Open shoes and sandals, high heels and platform soles throws the feet off balance, so avoid them.
4. Practice heel raises and toe raises exercise to strengthen your legs. Stand comfortably with the heels of your feet apart and rise on the balls of your feet as far as possible for a few seconds before lowering. For toe raises, wear flat shoes with smooth heels. Stand on your heels and raise your toe as high as possible. Walk for 3-5 minutes keeping your toes elevated.