ANKLE LIGAMENT SPRAIN

What is Ankle Ligament Sprain?

A chronic ankle ligament sprain refers to a situation where an initial ankle injury, typically an acute ligament sprain, does not heal properly or fully and continues to cause symptoms over an extended period. This is different from an acute ankle sprain, which usually heals within a few weeks. In a chronic sprain, the ligament(s) remain weak, unstable, and more prone to reinjury.

A lateral ankle sprain occurs when the foot rolls or twists inward (inversion), stretching or tearing one or more of the lateral ligaments ankle structures. This is sometimes described as a lateral ligament sprain or lateral ankle strain, and severity ranges from mild stretching (grade 1) to a complete tear (grade 3).

Symptoms

Persistent Pain: The ankle may hurt or feel sore, particularly during or after physical activity.
Swelling: Mild swelling may persist, especially after physical activity or prolonged standing/walking.
Instability: A feeling of the ankle “giving way” or weakness when walking, running, or standing.
Reduced Range of Motion: There may be limited motion, particularly in dorsiflexion (when the foot moves upward).
Frequent Reinjury: The ankle may continue to sprain with minimal force or after mild twisting motions, indicating the ligament is not fully healed or strong.
A feeling of instability or the ankle ‘giving way‘, especially with repeated or poorly rehabilitated sprains, sometimes described as ongoing ankle lateral ligaments pain or lateral ankle sprain ligaments not settling as expected.

Treatment We Offer

An ultrasound-guided cortisone injection can be an effective treatment option for a chronic ankle ligament sprain to reduce inflammation, manage pain, and promote healing when conservative treatments have not provided sufficient relief. This procedure involves injecting a corticosteroid medication directly into the affected ligament or joint, using ultrasound imaging for precise placement of the needle.

Pain Relief Mechanism of Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injections

Reduces inflammation: Cortisone suppresses the inflammatory response around the affected ankle, helping to reduce irritation and swelling.
Relieves pain: By reducing inflammation, cortisone can decrease pain and tenderness associated with a chronic ankle ligament sprain.
Targets the affected area: Ultrasound guidance allows the clinician to visualise the relevant ankle structures and accurately guide the injection to the intended area.
Improves movement: Reduced pain and inflammation may make it easier to move the ankle and carry out everyday activities.

Benefits of Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injections

Targeted Delivery: The injection is delivered directly into the damaged area, improving the chances of reducing inflammation and pain.
Pain Relief: The corticosteroid reduces inflammation in the ligaments and joint, helping to relieve pain and improve ankle mobility.
Reduced Swelling: The anti-inflammatory effects can help reduce swelling and discomfort, allowing for a quicker recovery.
Faster Recovery: By addressing the root cause of inflammation directly, ultrasound-guided injections can lead to faster symptom improvement compared to oral medications alone.

Your Care Pathway With Us

To book an appointment you can call our reception line, 0142084487, or email to info@altonpainclinic.co.uk or click the button given below.
Comprehensive Musculoskeletal examination and testing.
Same day Ultrasound Guided Injection for pain relief.
Discussion of your treatment plan, treatment plan can include advanced treatments for example Cortisone Injections, Hyaluronic injections and various other options tailored to your specific needs.

What our patients say

The Anatomy of the Ankle Ligaments

The ankle is supported by a number of ligaments that stabilize and control movement. The most commonly involved ligaments in sprains are:

Lateral Ligaments: On the outside of the ankle, including the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), calcaneofibular ligament (CFL), and posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL). The ATFL is particularly vulnerable to sprains.
Medial Ligament: The deltoid ligament on the inside of the ankle helps stabilize the joint. This is less frequently injured but still a potential site for sprains.
Syndesmosis Ligament: The syndesmotic ligament (or high ankle sprain) connects the two bones of the lower leg (the tibia and fibula). Injuries to this ligament can cause longer recovery times.

What Happens During an Ankle Sprain?

When the ankle ligaments are stretched beyond their normal range of motion, they can tear. This causes damage to the ligament fibers, resulting in:

Pain
Swelling
Bruising
Instability

In an acute sprain, symptoms may last for a few days to weeks, but with proper treatment, healing can occur. However, if the ligaments do not heal properly, if there’s inadequate rehabilitation, or if the individual returns to activity too soon, the sprain can become chronic.

Chronic Ankle Ligament Sprain Causes

A chronic ankle ligament sprain may develop due to several factors, including:

Incomplete Healing: If an acute sprain is not treated properly, it can lead to chronic instability in the ankle, especially if the ligament fibers are not able to fully heal.
Reinjury: Once an ankle has been sprained, the ligaments may be more vulnerable to further injury. Repeated sprains can cause ongoing instability.
Weak Muscles: Weakness in the muscles around the ankle, such as the calf muscles and foot muscles, can lead to poor ankle support, which increases the risk of reinjury.
Improper Rehabilitation: Not fully following a rehabilitation program, especially strengthening and balance exercises, can leave the ankle unstable and prone to ongoing issues.
Increased Activity: Returning to high-impact or sports activities too soon can overwhelm the healing tissues, leading to chronic issues.
Biomechanical Problems: Issues like flat feet or high arches can place abnormal stress on the ligaments, making them more likely to be injured and less able to heal properly.

Diagnosis

A clinician will typically perform a physical examination to assess the ankle for signs of swelling, instability, and tenderness. They may also perform tests to assess the ligaments’ stability, such as:

Ankle Drawer Test: To check for ATFL instability.
Talar Tilt Test: To assess for CFL involvement.

Prevention of Chronic Ankle Ligament Sprains

To prevent further sprains or chronic issues:

Proper Footwear: Wearing shoes with good support and proper fit.
Strengthening: Regular ankle strengthening and balance exercises, particularly if you’re active in sports or high-risk activities.
Avoid Overuse: Giving the ankle sufficient time to recover between intense activities.
Use Orthotics: For those with a history of ankle sprains, using ankle braces or supports during sports can provide added protection.

Choosing Alton Pain Clinic for Ankle Ligament Sprain

An ankle ligament sprain can affect mobility and everyday activities, particularly when pain or instability persists. At Alton Pain Clinic, a thorough assessment can help identify the cause of your symptoms and guide appropriate treatment. If your ankle pain is not improving, contact our team to discuss your symptoms and explore our treatment option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the lateral ankle ligaments?

The lateral ankle ligaments are a group of three ligaments on the outer side of the ankle joint that provide stability, particularly against inward-rolling movements.

How do you know if you've sprained your lateral ankle ligament?

Signs include pain and swelling on the outer ankle, bruising, difficulty bearing weight, and sometimes a feeling of the ankle giving way.

How long does a lateral ankle sprain take to heal?

Mild sprains often improve within 1–2 weeks, while more significant sprains can take 6–8 weeks or longer.

Can a lateral ankle sprain need injection treatment?

Most sprains resolve with conservative treatment. In select cases where pain persists, an ultrasound-guided injection may be considered to support recovery.