Ankle injury refers to any damage or trauma that occurs to the structures comprising the ankle joint, which connects the leg to the foot. The ankle joint is formed by the lower end of the tibia and fibula bones in the leg, and the talus bone in the foot. It is supported by ligaments, tendons, muscles, and cartilage.
Ankle injuries are frequently caused by sudden twists, rolls, or impacts that exceed the normal range of motion of the joint. These injuries can range from mild to severe, depending on the force and nature of the injury. Common ankle injuries include sprains, strains, fractures, dislocations, and tendonitis.
Sprained ankles are the most prevalent type of ankle injury, occurring when ligaments that connect bones are stretched or torn. Strained ankles involve damage to the muscles or tendons in the ankle. Fractures occur when any of the bones forming the ankle joint break or crack. Dislocations happen when the bones of the ankle are forced out of their normal positions. Tendonitis, alternatively, refers to inflammation or irritation of the tendons that attach muscles to bones in the ankle.
Symptoms of ankle injury may include pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, stiffness, instability, difficulty walking, and limited range of motion. Diagnosis is typically made by a healthcare professional through physical examination, imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs, and medical history review.
Treatment for ankle injuries can involve rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), pain management, immobilization with braces or splints, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery. Rehabilitation and proper healing time are essential to regain strength, stability, and normal function of the ankle after injury.
