Twisted Ankle vs. Sprained Ankle

Ankle injuries are common and can happen to anyone. They can occur during physical activities, such as sports or exercise, or even from a simple misstep while walking. Two of the most common ankle injuries are twisted ankles and sprained ankles. While the two may sound similar, they are different injuries that require different treatments. Understanding the difference between a twisted and sprained ankle is essential in getting the right treatment for your injury.

Twisted Ankle

A twisted ankle occurs when the ankle twists or turns too far, causing the ligaments to stretch or tear. This injury can cause pain, swelling, and bruising outside the ankle. It can also cause a limited range of motion and instability in the ankle.

Causes of a Twisted Ankle

A twisted ankle can occur due to a variety of reasons. Some of the most common causes include:

• Uneven surfaces
• Tripping or falling
• Wearing high heels or unstable shoes
• Overuse or repetitive stress

Symptoms of a Twisted Ankle

Symptoms of a twisted ankle may include:

• Pain and swelling on the outside of the ankle
• Limited range of motion in the ankle
• Instability in the ankle
• Bruising or discoloration
• Difficulty walking or putting weight on the affected foot

Treatment Options for a Twisted Ankle

The first step in treating a twisted ankle is to rest and elevate the affected foot. This will help reduce swelling and provide relief from pain. Applying ice to the ankle can also help reduce swelling and inflammation. Over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage pain.

In more severe cases, your doctor may recommend physical therapy to help restore the range of motion and strength to the ankle. In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to repair torn ligaments.

Sprained Ankle

A sprained ankle occurs when the ligaments in the ankle are stretched or torn. This injury can range from mild to severe and is classified by the number of ligaments injured and the injury's severity.

Causes of a Sprained Ankle

Sprained ankles can occur due to a variety of reasons. Some of the most common causes include:

• Rolling or twisting the ankle
• Landing awkwardly after jumping or falling
• Walking or running on an uneven surface
• Repetitive stress on the ankle

Symptoms of a Sprained Ankle

Symptoms of a sprained ankle may include:

• Pain and swelling
• Bruising or discoloration
• Limited range of motion in the ankle
• Instability in the ankle
• Difficulty walking or putting weight on the affected foot

Grading of Sprained Ankles

Sprained ankles are graded on a scale of 1 to 3 based on the severity of the injury.

• Grade 1: Mild sprain, with minimal stretching or tearing of the ligament.
• Grade 2: Moderate sprain, with partial tearing of the ligament.
• Grade 3: Severe sprain, with complete tearing of the ligament.

Treatment Options for a Sprained Ankle

Treatment for a sprained ankle depends on the severity of the injury. For mild to moderate sprains, the R.I.C.E method is recommended. This stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. This involves resting the ankle, applying ice to reduce swelling, using a compression bandage to provide support, and elevating the ankle to reduce swelling.

In more severe cases, your doctor may recommend physical therapy to help restore the range of motion and strength to the ankle. In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the torn ligament.

It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have a sprained ankle. Your doctor will perform a physical exam of the ankle and may order an X-ray or MRI to rule out an ankle fracture. A fracture can have symptoms similar to a sprained ankle but requires different treatment.

Differences between Twisted and Sprained Ankles

While a twisted and sprained ankle may sound similar, they are different injuries requiring different treatments. Here are some of the main differences between a twisted ankle and a sprained ankle:

• Location of the Injury: A twisted ankle typically occurs on the outside of the ankle, while a sprained ankle can occur on the inside or outside.
• Severity of the Injury: A twisted ankle is generally a less severe than a sprained ankle. A twisted ankle typically involves stretched or torn ligaments, while a sprained ankle can involve partial or complete tearing of the ligaments.
• Symptoms of the Injury: While both injuries can cause pain, swelling, and bruising, a sprained ankle may cause more severe pain and swelling than a twisted ankle. In addition, a sprained ankle may cause a popping or tearing sensation at the time of injury.
• Treatment Options for the Injury: Treatment for a twisted ankle typically involves rest, elevation, ice, and pain medication. In contrast, treatment for a sprained ankle may involve immobilization with a cast or brace, physical therapy, or even surgery in severe cases.

By understanding the differences between a twisted and sprained ankle, you can help ensure that you receive the appropriate treatment for your injury. If you are experiencing pain, swelling, or other symptoms in your ankle, consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience severe pain, swelling, or bruising or cannot put weight on the affected foot, you should see a doctor immediately. A sprained or twisted ankle can lead to chronic pain, instability, and long-term mobility issues if left untreated.

Preventing Ankle Injuries

While ankle injuries cannot always be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. These include:

• Wearing supportive footwear with good arch support
• Avoiding high heels and unstable shoes
• Strengthening the muscles around the ankle with exercises such as calf raises and ankle rotations
• Warming up before physical activity
• Avoiding uneven surfaces
• Paying attention to your surroundings and watching where you step

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between a twisted and sprained ankle is essential in getting the right treatment for your injury. If you experience any symptoms of an ankle injury, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Proper treatment and preventative measures can reduce your risk of ankle injuries and ensure a healthy and active lifestyle.