ANKLE SPRAIN
Ankle sprains, defined as straining the ankle joint due to unbalanced stepping, may occur due to ground irregularities in sports activities and our daily movements. Sprains, which are one of the most common reasons for applying to emergency departments, can be mild but may also be accompanied by bone fractures. Sprains, also commonly called dislocations, very rarely cause dislocation. The most common problems are ligament tears. The degree of tear varies depending on the severity of the sprain. Fractures accompanying the tear may generally occur in the lower part of the fibula bone or the 5th comb, but fractures may also occur in other foot bones.
Complaint
Pain occurs in the ankle at rest or when stepping. Generally, there is swelling and/or bruising on the outer surface of the ankle due to ligament rupture. The patient has difficulty moving the ankle, cannot step on the foot, and may experience limitation of movement.
Examination
The first examination is done by observation and swelling and bruises on the ankle are examined. On physical examination, there is pain on the outer surface of the ankle. When you force the ankle inwards, tension and pain may occur on the outer surface. Every area of the ankle and foot is evaluated, and the tests to be performed are selected based on the examination.
Diagnosis
After the examination, first an x-ray is taken appropriate to the complaint area and it is evaluated whether the findings are accompanied by a fracture. Fractures may be missed in x-rays taken without examination. In some cases, x-rays are not sufficient for diagnosis. In these cases, a full diagnosis is made using magnetic resonance and computed tomography. Magnetic resonance should be used to evaluate the presence of cartilage damage, especially in recurrent sprains. The integrity of cartilage structures is more important than bones and ligaments, as it causes cartilage destruction and calcification in the future.
Treatment
Simple ankle sprains are treated with methods such as rest, cold application, ankle elevation, painkillers and bandage applications and the patient can walk within a few days. In more severe ankle sprains, serious ligament ruptures and bone fractures may occur. In these cases, surgery may be required based on the opinion of the orthopedist. Sprains are situations that should be taken seriously because the problems that may occur within the joint are permanent problems.
Ankle sprains may recur due to reasons such as damage to the balance cells of the ankle, compression of new tissues formed in the ankle joint, and ligament ruptures. Balance and stretching exercises should be performed after recovery to restore balance. If there are compressed tissues, intra-articular cleaning can be performed with arthroscopic surgery. The main purpose of the treatments is to prevent re-sprains and to obtain a painless and unrestricted joint.
Ankle sprains may recur due to reasons such as damage to the balance cells of the ankle, compression of new tissues formed in the ankle joint, and ligament ruptures. Balance and stretching exercises should be performed after recovery to restore balance. If there are compressed tissues, intra-articular cleaning can be performed with arthroscopic surgery. The main purpose of the treatments is to prevent re-sprains and to obtain a painless and unrestricted joint.