An ankle ligament tear occurs when the strong bands of tissue (ligaments) that connect the bones of your ankle joint are stretched or torn due to sudden twisting, rolling, or impact. This injury is common among athletes and individuals who engage in high-impact activities or wear improper footwear.
Types of Ankle Ligament Tear
There are mainly three grades of ankle ligament tear based on severity:
Grade 1 (Mild Sprain): Slight stretching of ligaments with minor pain and swelling.
Grade 2 (Moderate Tear): Partial tear of the ligament causing noticeable swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking.
Grade 3 (Severe Tear): Complete ligament rupture leading to severe pain, instability, and inability to bear weight.
Common Symptoms of Ankle Ligament Tear
Sharp pain around the ankle joint
Swelling and bruising
Restricted range of motion
Instability while standing or walking
Popping sound at the time of injury
Causes of Ankle Ligament Tear
Sudden twisting or rolling of the foot
Sports injuries (especially in basketball, football, or running)
Walking or running on uneven surfaces
Wearing improper footwear or high heels
Previous ankle injuries leading to weak ligaments
Diagnosis
A doctor diagnoses an ankle ligament tear through physical examination and imaging tests like X-ray, MRI, or ultrasound to determine the extent of damage.
Treatment for Ankle Ligament Tear
Treatment depends on the severity of the tear:
Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE): First-line treatment to reduce pain and swelling.
Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs for pain relief.
Physiotherapy: Exercises to restore strength, balance, and mobility.
Ankle Braces or Supports: To stabilize the joint during healing.
Surgery: Recommended in severe cases where the ligament is completely torn or the ankle remains unstable after conservative treatment.
Recovery and Prevention
Recovery from an ankle ligament tear can take from a few weeks to several months. Proper rehabilitation, ankle strengthening exercises, and wearing supportive footwear can help prevent re-injury.