Ankle Sprain

A sprained ankle is the most common sports injury. An ankle sprain is an injury to the ligament(s) (the tough elastic tissue that connects bones to one another) in the ankle and foot. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that stabilize the ankle joint. This is a common foot / ankle condition that can be easily treated by Board Certified Podiatric Surgeon David P. Rosenzweig, DPM.

Ankle sprains are graded I, II, or III based on their severity:

Grade I:        Ankle pain with minimal damage to the ligaments 
Grade II:     Ankle pain + more ligament damage and looseness of the joint 
Grade III:   Ankle pain + complete tearing of the ligament, and the joint is very loose or unstable

The severity of the sprained ankle depends on the degree of stretching or tearing of the ligaments in the ankle.

Grade I: In a mild ankle sprain, the ligaments may stretch, but they do not tear. The ankle usually has mild tenderness and minimal swelling. However, a mild sprain may increase the risk of repeat injuries. 
Grade II: In a moderate sprain, a ligament tears to a small degree. Obvious swelling and bruising are common, and walking is usually painful and difficult. 
Grade III: In a severe sprained ankle, a ligament (or ligaments) tear(s) completely, causing significant swelling, pain and often bleeding under the skin. As a result, the ankle is unstable and unable to bear weight

The signs of an ankle sprain can include:

• Pain
• Tenderness
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Inability to walk or bear weight on the joint
• Stiffness

How does Dr. Rosenzweig diagnosis an ankle sprain?

Dr. Rosenzweig can diagnosis an ankle sprain at either his Rye Brook (Westchester County) New York  office. He will usually be able to tell if you have a sprain by asking you some questions about how the injury occurred and by examining your ankle. The foot doctor will take x-rays of your ankle to make sure that it is not fractured or broken.