Inversion Ankle Sprains

The ankle is the most easily injured joint in both athletic activity and everyday life. Of all the ankle injuries, ankle sprains are the most common. About 70% to 85% of ankle sprains are inversion ankle sprains. According to studies, 10% to 30% of those with inversion ankle sprains will develop recurring mechanical instabilities. In other words, their balance will not function as well as before the injury.

An inversion ankle sprain occurs when the foot lands in an angle that makes it turn inward. Due to the nature of the ankle joints, an inversion ankle sprain is more likely to occur than the opposite, which is eversion (turning outward of the foot).

You can get general information about ankle sprain and the 3 different types by following the link. Since most ankle sprains are inversion sprains, the general ankle sprain article applies to inversion ankle sprains.

Causes

There are several causes inversion ankle sprain such uneven surfaces, failure to warm up before exercise, previous sprain, inappropriate shoes and being out of shape. Please check the Causes of Ankle Sprain article for more information.

Symptoms

Pain, swelling and bruising are the main symptoms observed in inversion ankle sprains. These symptoms vary in degree depending on the grade of the ankle sprain. Read more about Sprained Ankle Symptoms by following the link.

Treatment

There are three phases to sprained ankle treatment. The length of each phase will depend on the severity of the injury. You can read more about treatment in the Sprained Ankle Treatment Guide. There are useful tips on how to shorten the length of time required to heal ankle sprains.

Advances in research also resulted in more efficient healing. The H.E.M. system allows healing of ankle sprains within days.

Prevention

Although ankle sprains are very common, you can take steps to minimize the risk. There are exercises that you can do to strengthen the ligaments, tendons and muscles in your ankles and other parts of your body that support the ankle. You can read more about Ankle Sprain Prevention by following the link.