Table of Contents
Introduction
An ankle inversion injury happens when your foot twists inward, damaging the ligaments on the outside of your ankle. This injury can cause pain, swelling, and make everyday activities challenging. Fortunately, our sprained ankle specialist in Johns Creek offers advanced care for ankle injuries, including sprained ankle treatment and torn ankle ligaments repair, to help you recover quickly and regain mobility.
Understanding Ankle Inversion Injuries
An ankle inversion injury happens when the foot rolls inward, overstretching or tearing the ligaments on the outer side of the ankle. Sudden movements like running on uneven surfaces, landing awkwardly after a jump, or stepping incorrectly often trigger this type of injury. It ranks among the most common ankle sprains, especially for athletes and active individuals.
Common symptoms include pain, swelling, and bruising on the outer side of the ankle. You may struggle to put weight on the affected foot and feel stiffness or instability. In severe cases, you might hear a popping sound during the injury, signaling a torn ligament.
Recognizing these symptoms early and seeking treatment from a sprained ankle specialist can prevent complications. Early sprained ankle repair reduces the risk of chronic instability or recurring sprains, which could lead to long-term issues like arthritis. Our Johns Creek foot surgeon is highly experienced in diagnosing and treating ankle inversion injuries to ensure a full recovery.
Symptoms of Ankle Inversion
Symptoms of an ankle inversion injury vary depending on the severity of the sprain, but generally include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the ankle. As the foot rolls inward, the ligaments on the outer side of the ankle stretch or tear, triggering immediate sharp pain. This pain typically worsens with movement or when trying to put weight on the injured foot.
Swelling is another common symptom, along with bruising and stiffness. In severe cases, the ankle may feel unstable, indicating possible torn ligaments. Early sprained ankle treatment is crucial to ensure proper healing and prevent long-term complications.
Types of Ankle Sprains Related to Inversion
Ankle inversion injuries can result in different types of sprains, depending on the ligaments affected and the severity. The two main types are:
- Low Ankle Sprain: This is the most common type of inversion ankle sprain, where the ligaments on the outer side of the ankle are overstretched or torn. It typically results from the foot rolling inward, often during sports or sudden movements.
- High Ankle Sprain: A high ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments connecting the two lower leg bones are injured. This type of sprain is less common and often requires more extensive high ankle sprain treatment and recovery time.
Treatment Options for Ankle Inversion
Treatment for an ankle inversion injury varies based on the sprain’s severity. For mild sprains, the R.I.C.E. method—Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation—helps reduce pain and swelling. An ankle brace supports the joint and prevents further injury.
For moderate to severe sprains, sprained ankle repair includes physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility. Severely torn ligaments may require ankle ligament surgery to repair the damage. Our Johns Creek foot surgeon provides expert surgical and non-surgical treatments to ensure a successful recovery.
High Ankle Sprain Treatment
High ankle sprains often require more extensive care compared to low ankle sprains. Immobilization, such as wearing a boot or using crutches, may be needed to allow the ligaments to heal properly. In some cases, surgery might be required to repair the damaged ligaments.
Whether you need ankle ligament surgery or a more conservative approach, our sprained ankle specialist will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. While sprained ankle recovery for high ankle sprains may take longer, proper care can ensure a full recovery.
Recovery from Ankle Inversion Injuries
Recovery times for ankle inversion injuries depend on the severity of the injury. Mild cases usually take a few weeks to heal with proper care, such as following a R.I.C.E. plan. Swelling often begins to subside after a few days, but how long a sprained ankle stays swollen varies.
For moderate to severe cases, recovery may take several weeks or months. Rehabilitation, including strengthening and stretching exercises, helps ensure a full recovery and prevents future injuries. For severe injuries involving torn ligaments, ankle ligament surgery may be required, followed by physical therapy to restore full function.
