Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries in both sports and everyday activities. The injury affects the ligaments in the ankle and can cause anything from mild soreness to a complete rupture, resulting in long-term instability.
What is a sprained foot?
A sprain occurs when the ankle is twisted beyond its normal range of motion. This puts strain on the ankle ligaments, which can be stretched or completely torn. The injury is most common on the outside of the foot, but the inside can also be affected. The injury is graded into three levels: grade 1 (mild sprain), grade 2 (partial tear of the ligament), and grade 3 (total rupture).
Symptoms
- Pain with load or movement in the ankle joint
- Swelling and discoloration around the ankle
- Tenderness over damaged ligaments
- Feeling of instability in the ankle
- Reduced mobility, especially in the acute phase
Common causes & risk factors
A sprained foot most often occurs when changing direction quickly, landing on uneven surfaces or playing contact sports. Factors that increase the risk include poor ankle stability, improper footwear, uneven surfaces, being overweight or the position of the foot (pronation/supination). Football boots and other narrow sports shoes can also increase the risk because they provide less support to the outside of the foot.
When should you seek medical attention?
If you experience severe pain, are unable to bear weight on your foot, or suspect a major ligament injury, you should contact your healthcare provider. It is also wise to seek help for further assessment if you experience recurring sprains or persistent instability.
Recommended protection & support
A stabilizing ankle support is an effective aid for sprained feet. The support counteracts harmful extreme positions but at the same time allows normal movement, which reduces the risk of new sprains. For milder sprains, a compression brace can help reduce swelling and provide light support. For more extensive injuries, orthoses with higher stability are recommended to provide security during recovery and prevent recurrence.
