What should I do after ankle sprain?
Ankle sprain is what we call "ankle sprain" in our daily life. It is common in joint and ligament injuries and has a high incidence rate. So, what should we do if we experience ankle sprains in our daily lives?
What is ankle sprain?
Sprain of ankle joint is a common joint injury. The ankle joint is the weight-bearing joint closest to the ground in the human body. In other words, the ankle joint carries the most weight in the body. The stability of the ankle joint is directly related to daily activities and sports. Ligament injuries around the ankle joint are also included in the category of ankle joint sprain. Ankle sprains may damage the medial malleolus triangle ligament, inferior tibiofibular transverse ligament, etc.
How to evaluate the severity of ankle sprain?
Based on clinical manifestations, including mild sprains, moderate sprains, and severe sprains. Mild sprains are characterized by local tenderness, without any signs of limping or swelling. During stress testing, pain may be induced; Moderate sprain with local tenderness, accompanied by limping, local swelling and other symptoms, unable to stand on the toes, and unable to jump; Severe sprain, presenting with diffuse swelling, tenderness, and other symptoms, requiring crutches before walking.
2. According to the degree of damage, it is classified as Grade I, Grade II, and Grade III. Grade I, ligament elongation; Grade II, partial ligament rupture; Grade III, complete ligament rupture.
3. According to anatomical structure, it can be divided into Grade I, Grade II, and Grade III. Grade I, manifested as anterior talofibular ligament rupture; Grade II, manifested as tears in the anterior talofibular ligament and calcaneofibular ligament; Grade III, manifested as cracks in the anterior talofibular ligament, calcaneofibular ligament, and posterior talofibular ligament.
What are the causes of ankle sprains?
1. Insufficient preparation for exercise. Ankle sprains are prone to occur during exercise. Adverse weather conditions, poor physical condition, excessive physical activity, improper preparation for activities, and mental numbness can all cause sports injuries. In addition, inadequate sports facilities and venues, as well as clothing and footwear that do not meet the requirements of sports, may also cause sports injuries. Therefore, it is recommended that everyone should prepare and warm up before exercising. Do not be careless, stop immediately if you feel uncomfortable, and deal with ankle sprains immediately.
2. Wearing high heels or thick soled shoes has always been a favorite of women. Although high heels bring beautiful curves and mature charm, they also increase the risk of ankle sprains. Going downstairs may cause ankle sprains, stepping on things may also cause ankle sprains, and not standing firmly may cause ankle sprains, because although high heels increase height, they reduce ankle stability.
What should I do after suffering an ankle sprain?
Ankle sprains occur frequently in daily life. Once an ankle sprain occurs, we should deal with it from the following aspects:
1. Apply hot and cold compress correctly. In the early stage of sprain, small blood vessels may rupture, which may cause bleeding. At this time, cold compress can promote blood vessel contraction and coagulation, which can control the injury and prevent the condition from worsening. After 24 hours, the ruptured blood vessel stops bleeding, and applying hot compress at this time can help dissipate the congestion around the sprain. Cold compress method: Soak a towel in cold water, then place it on the injured area and replace it every 3 minutes. Alternatively, ice cubes can be placed in a plastic bag for 20-30 minutes each time. If it is summer, rinse with tap water for 4-5 minutes, but not too long. Hot compress method: Soak the towel in hot water or hot vinegar, then place it on the injured area for 5-10 minutes. If the towel does not feel hot, replace it. Apply 1-2 times a day for about 30 minutes each time.
2. Exercise appropriately. The swelling and pain symptoms in the early stage of sprain gradually worsen. At this time, activity should be suspended. After the condition improves slightly, as long as it is not too painful, ankle movement can be gradually carried out.
3. Rub the twisted area. After 24 hours of ankle sprain, we can massage the twisted area ourselves to promote normal blood circulation and aid in recovery. Rubbing method: Continuously press on the hematoma area, using the kneading method, with the swelling area as the center, slowly rubbing in various directions around it.
4. Rational use of medication. In the early stage of sprain, oral medication is generally not necessary, and it is not advisable to apply blood activating drugs externally to prevent increased blood flow. When swelling is obvious, "Litong" can be sprayed to alleviate discomfort. After 24 hours, Yunnan Baiyao, Dieda Wan, Huoxue Zhitong San and other drugs can be taken orally, and Wuhu Dan can be applied externally. After reducing swelling, there is no need for oral or external medication.
Clinical treatment methods for ankle sprain
After suffering from ankle sprain, it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately. Before seeking treatment, follow the RICE principle (rest, which means no weight, ice compress, compression pressure bandage, elevation to elevate the affected limb). After seeking medical attention, the doctor will comprehensively evaluate the injury and develop a treatment plan.
In general, mild injuries to the lateral ankle ligament can be treated conservatively by using a cast or brace to fix the ankle joint in a mild outward neutral position. Most fixations last for 3-6 weeks, during which no weight-bearing is allowed. Rehabilitation training should be carried out immediately after removing the cast or brace to prevent muscle atrophy and joint adhesion. After removing the plaster, you can slowly walk with heavy loads. Generally, after 3 months of rehabilitation exercise, your muscle strength can be restored and you can participate in sports activities.
For patients with severe injuries to the lateral ankle ligament, such as ankle instability and joint capsule tear, surgical treatment is recommended. Postoperative plaster fixation should last for 3-6 weeks, and the plaster can be removed for weight-bearing walking. Generally, physical activity can be carried out 3-6 months after surgery.
In summary, for ankle sprains, once they occur in daily life, correct and feasible methods should be taken immediately for treatment, and timely medical examination and treatment should be carried out at the hospital. Different treatment plans should be adopted according to the actual situation to restore joint function as soon as possible, so as to avoid serious effects and sequelae.
