An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments around the ankle are overstretched or torn due to twisting or turning motion. It is one of the most common sports injuries.
Ankle sprains can be classified according to the following grades.
Grade I
Grade II
Grade III
If you suspect a Grade II or III ankle sprain, seek medical attention, as these injuries may require immobilisation, physical therapy, or surgery to completely heal.
There are several types of symptoms if there is an ankle sprain. These symptoms may include:
Your doctor would first question your general health and symptoms before conducting a thorough physical examination. Diagnosis is made based on your reported symptoms, physical examination, and investigations.
All ankle sprains can be treated similarly in the acute phase. Initial management is to reduce pain and swelling while maintaining a range of motion prior to gradually introducing exercises.
PRICE - Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation
PRICE is a common approach for the first two or three days.
Medication: Pain and swelling can be managed with oral or topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Physiotherapy: Range of motion exercises only after the acute pain and swelling have subsided.
Immobilisation and bracing: Depending on the grade of sprain.
If you have difficulty bearing weight on the ankle or if it remains swollen or painful for more than 3 to 5 days despite PRICE, you need to be evaluated by an orthopaedic specialist to ensure that there is no fracture or to determine if your sprain is severe enough to require special care.
A dedicated and expert team of Orthopaedics specialists at Pantai Hospital is available for consultation to provide the best care and assistance.
Please seek immediate medical attention at the Accident and Emergency (A&E) department at your nearest Pantai Hospital in case of severe ankle pain.
Pantai Hospital has been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.