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WHAT EVERY ATHLETE AND PARENT NEEDS TO KNOW ABOUT ANKLE SPRAINS


 

WHAT EVERY ATHLETE AND PARENT NEEDS TO KNOW ABOUT ANKLE SPRAINS

Grade 1- A grade 1 sprain is just a tweak of the ligament. No tearing. This will hurt when it happens and may be sore for several days but most likely doesn’t swell much and DOES NOT BRUISE. You should Ice, rest and stretch this injury until it feels good enough to return to activity.

Grade 2- A grade 2 sprain is a partial tear. There is some bruising but no instability. It’s very difficult to differentiate a grade 2 from a grade 3 so this should be evaluated by a foot and ankle sprecialist.

Grade 3- A grade 3 sprain is a complete tear to the ligament. Often the athlete will hear or feel a pop. Walking is difficult to impossible. There is a good deal of swelling and bruising. If this is not treated in a walking boot within days of the injury, the loss of stability results in an ankle which is twice as likely to sprain, has a 40% rate of residual pain, and will develop arthritic changes. Neglected grade 3 ankle sprains often reduce activity and quality of life if not treated properly. Get in to the office and take care of these!!