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Home » Products tagged “Sprained Ankle”

Sprained Ankle

Dr. Max Alastair Trotz

Medically reviewed & edited by Dr. Max Trotz,
MBBS (State Examination), MRCP (Edin), DCH

A sprained ankle is a soft tissue injury involving trauma to the ligaments of the ankle. The severity of this injury can range from a grade 1 strain (consisting of mild overstretching of the structure or microscopic tearing) to a grade 3 strain (consisting of a complete rupture and usually accompanied by joint instability). In the most severe cases (e.g. inability to put any weight on the ankle), a sprain may be accompanied by a fracture.

Typical symptoms of a sprained ankle are pain, swelling and tenderness. In most cases, a sprained ankle can be treated at home, using R.I.C.E. procedures and pain relief medication (see below). However, in a few cases, the severity of the injury may prompt a doctor to suggest more invasive procedures.

This is one of the most common soft tissue injuries.In fact, it is the most common sports injury treated in outpatient clinics.

However, it is important to note that it is by no means associated only with sports activity. For example, in colder climates, many people suffer ankle sprains walking on icy or snowy surfaces or while clearing snow from their homes.

Types Of Ankle Sprain

Medical diagarm showing the occurrence of a lateral ankle sprain

Sprains can involve either the inner or outer ligaments. A medial sprain involves damage to the ligaments on the inside of the joint (nearer to the centre of the body). This is normally the result of the ankle rolling outwards – an event known as eversion.

Most sprains involve ligaments on the outside of the joint (lateral sprains). These occur when the ankle is rolled inwards – an event known as inversion. This can happen when the patient stumbles and the supporting foot is twisted and, usually, inverted. Examples for this occurrence include a woman slipping in high-heeled shoes or a cross-country runner twisting his ankle when putting his foot on rutted ground. See the diagram above for an illustration of ankle inversion.

High Ankle Sprains

A special subcategory of sprains includes those involving ligaments above the ankle itself. This is normally the result of a combination of the foot being turned out and everted at the same time. This type of sprain is known as a high ankle sprain and typically occurs among athletes, especially those in contact sports like hockey.

In many cases, high ankle sprains are accompanied by a broken bone in the joint.

Degrees Of Ankle Sprain

As with most soft tissue injuries, ankle sprains can also be classified according to their severity:

A grade I, or mild sprain involves only overstretching of the ankle ligaments, with no actual tearing;
Grade II sprains involve a partial, but not total, ligament tear;
Grade III sprains involve a complete rupture of a ligament. This type of sprain usually requires surgical intervention for its proper treatment.

A sprained ankle is always swollen. If the affected ligament is partially torn, then the bruising is slight and usually appears 1-2 days after the injury. Only a limited degree of passive inversion of the ankle is possible. With a completely torn ligament, the bruising is severe and appears at the time of the injury. Further, excessive passive inversion of the ankle is possible

Causes

Typical events that can give rise to an ankle sprain include:

Falling awkwardly in a way that causes the ankle to twist while you are off balance;
Landing awkwardly after a jump and twisting the ankle while trying to recover your balance;
Walking, running or exercising on a rocky or unstable surface. In these circumstances, the ankle can be twisted when the patient inadvertently steps on the side of a rock while walking or running (for example).

In some cases, an individual who has suffered a sprain in the past is more likely to experience one again. So, the above situations are even more likely to cause a sprain for such an individual. Wearing shoes that don’t provide proper support or that make it more likely to “roll” the ankle will also predispose someone to an ankle sprain.

An injury of this type should be handled carefully to ensure that the patient recovers fully before restarting regular activities. Otherwise, the ankle ligaments could be permanently weakened, leading to long term ankle instability or even ankle arthritis.

Ankle Sprain Symptoms

Typical symptoms of this injury include:

Pain and swelling over the lateral side of the ankle (for an inversion sprain);
For an eversion sprain, the pain and swelling tends to occur at the anterior (front) side of the ankle;
In some cases, the patient may also experience contusions (leading to bruising and discoloration) over the painful area;
Difficulty bearing weight on the injured ankle, resulting in the patient being forced to limp;
Ankle instability, or “wobbliness of the ankle” when the patient tries to put weight on it;
Stiffness and decreased range of motion of the ankle.

Individuals experiencing some or all of these symptoms should seek medical advice, preferably from someone with a sports medicine background.

Treatment & Prevention

Treatment Of Ankle Sprains

In most cases, an ankle sprain can be treated at home using conservative R.I.C.E. procedures, as follows:

Rest – keep the weight off the ankle as much as possible. If the patient needs to move around, he or she should consider using crutches or a wheelchair. A brace can also be used to support the ankle;
Apply Ice to the ankle every 15 to 20 minutes for the first day or two after suffering the injury. After this, ice can be applied every three to four hours for the next two days;
Apply Compression to the injury using an elastic bandage. If this causes numbness or a loss of feeling anywhere (including away from the ankle), the bandage may be interfering with circulation. If so, the bandage should be removed immediately and a doctor consulted;
Whenever possible, keep the ankle Elevated (for example by using pillows) above heart level to reduce swelling.

The use of painkillers like NSAIDs (Ibuprofen or Naproxen) and Paracetamol may be necessary.

Surgery for an ankle sprain is only rarely required. It may be performed when the damage to the ligaments is severe (as is the case with a grade III sprain) and there is evidence of instability, or the injury fails to respond to non-surgical treatment.

Mild sprains take a week to 10 days to heal, while more severe sprains may require several weeks. As the ankle heals, the doctor may order enrolment in a physical therapy program. This will include ankle strengthening exercises designed to prepare the patient for a return to normal activity.

How To Prevent Or Reduce The Risk Of A Sprain

To reduce the risk of suffering an ankle sprain, individuals can take the following precautions:

Warm up and stretch properly before commencing any athletic activity. The warmer your joints are, the more supple your ligaments will be. As a result, the less likely these ligaments are to be torn or overstretched if something happens.
Avoid exercising or playing on uneven surfaces as much as possible;
If you have previously suffered an ankle sprain, use an ankle brace, an elastic bandage or athletic tape to give the joint additional support;
If you play a sport in which falls are common, you can get coaching in falling or running when off balance. This will reduce the risk of incurring an ankle sprain when you are doing these things;
Performing exercises to strengthen the muscles used during the physical activity in question.

Suggested Sprained Ankle Products

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Brand

BioSkin®(5)
Calko(1)
Cando®(1)
Cramer® Sports Medicine(1)
Darco(2)
DynaPro Health(1)
Kinesio®(1)
LP® Support(2)
McDavid®(7)
Mueller® Sports Medicine(14)

Product Category

Hot & Cold Therapy(1)
- Cold Compression(1)
Taping, Wrapping & Padding(3)
- Athletic Tape(2)
  - K Tape(1)
  - Zinc Oxide Tape(1)
- Wrap(1)
Orthopedic Bracing & Support(29)
- Ankle Brace(28)
  - Ankle Brace with Straps(17)
  - Ankle Sleeve(7)
  - Lace Up Ankle Brace(3)
  - Stirrup Ankle Brace(1)
- Walking Boot(1)
Clinic Equipment & Supplies(2)
- First Aid(1)
- Exercise Rehabilitation(1)
  - Stretching(1)

Price Range

In Stock
4 Way Stretch Ankle Support
Ankle Sleeve
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The Mueller 4 Way Stretch Ankle Support uses 360 degree compression from its no seam knit material to treat ankle pain and swelling.
- Provides round the clock ankle support and comfort that allows you to continute your active lifestyile with less pain and discomfort;
- No seam knit that will not scrape or damage the skin;
- Uniform 4 way stretch material that applies support to the entire joint;
- Also helps keep the ankle warm and supple, improving blood circulation and reducing joint stiffness;
- Can be used to treat injured, sore, weak, unstable or arthritic ankles.
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Adjustable Ankle Stabilizer
Ankle Brace with Straps
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The Mueller Sports Medicine Adjustable Ankle Stabilizer features a convenient step-in design for convenient application, a seamless air-mesh sole for superior comfort and firm plastic stays for reliable ankle support. Replaces the MU44547 Adjustable Ankle Stabilizer.
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Adjustable Ankle Support
Ankle Brace with Straps
Rated 5.00 out of 5

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Mueller’s Adjustable Ankle Support boasts a patented strapping system that uses criss-cross tension straps. Seamless edges produce a comfort oriented design with minimal bunching. One Size.
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AFTR Ankle Brace
Ankle Brace with Straps
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AFTR Ankle and Foot Trauma Rehabilitation
The BioSkin AFTR provides compression and stabilization following ankle sprains, other ankle injuries, and foot or ankle surgeries. The AFTR is made from material which is thin and breathable and contours perfectly to the anatomy of the ankle, providing excellent compression to remove swelling, decrease pain, and speed recovery.
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In Stock

AFTR Ankle Brace with Gel
Ankle Brace with Straps
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AFTR Ankle and Foot Trauma Rehabilitation
The Bio Skin AFTR with Gel provides support and stabilization for the non-operative and post-operative treatment of many foot and ankle pathologies. Brace includes medial and lateral plastic stays as well as figure-8 stirrup straps to limit movement in the ankle and hindfoot. The AFTR is made from Bio Skin material so it contours to the anatomy during normal volume changes following injuries and surgery. Bio Skin is hypo-allergenic, breathable, and thin.
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In Stock

AFTR DC (Dorsal Closure) Ankle Brace
Ankle Brace with Straps
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AFTR Ankle and Foot Trauma Rehabilitation
The Bio Skin AFTR DC (dorsal closure) provides support and stabilization for the non-operative and post-operative treatment of many foot and ankle pathologies. Brace includes medial and lateral plastic stays as well as figure-8 stirrup straps to limit movement in the ankle and hindfoot. The AFTR DC is made from Bio Skin material so it contours to the anatomy during normal volume changes following injuries and surgery. Bio Skin is hypo-allergenic, breathable, and thin

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In Stock

Air Traveler
Walking Boot
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The Darco Air Traveler™ walker boot features a circumferential air bladder, an inflation/deflation system and a five way strapping system that offers the ideal balance between comfort and support. The low profile sole permits the patient to maintain a normal stride pattern while wearing the boot.
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Ankle Brace / Lace Up With Stays
Lace Up Ankle Brace
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The McDavid Ankle Brace / Lace Up With Stays has spring steel medical stays for solid support and is built of highly breathable two-layer polyester/vinyl mesh. The ventilated tongues makes this brace highly breathable, as do its highly breathable lining and reinforced eyelets.
Level 3: Maximum Protection – Helping to prevent and/or recover from common ankle sprains
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Ankle Brace With Straps
Ankle Brace with Straps
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The McDavid Ankle Brace With Straps helps to prevent and/or recover from common ankle sprains. It is constructed of single-layer polyester fabric for full support and minimal weight.
Level 3: Maximum Protection – Helping to prevent and/or recover from common ankle sprains

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Ankle Sleeve / 4-Way Elastic With Gel Buttresses
Ankle Sleeve
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The McDavid Ankle Sleeve / 4-Way Elastic With Gel Buttresses provides support and relief from pain, swelling and inflammation due to tendonitis, arthritis or injury.
Level 2: Advanced Protection – Support and relief from pain, swelling and inflammation due to tendonitis, arthritis or injury
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Ankle Stretching Aid
Stretching
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The Ankle Stretching Aid will help athletes keep their foot and ankle soft tissues warm and supple and avoid the risk of serious injuries.
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Ankle Support
Ankle Sleeve
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The LP Ankle Support supports weak ankles, prevents ligament sprains and relieves pain from tendonitis. You can add a simple strap to enhance the adjustability or stability of the brace. It is is an ideal choice for those with a history of neoprene or latex allergies.
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Ankle Support with Straps
Ankle Brace with Straps
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The Mueller Ankle Support with Straps combines elastic straps for optimal ankle support with a neoprene blend construction for joint warmth & blood circulation.
- An excellent choice for mild ankle sprains or weak or unstable ankles;
- Warmth for its neoprene blend optimizes blood flow through the joint;
- Warmth also reduces joint stiffness and pain;
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ATF 2 Ankle Brace
Lace Up Ankle Brace
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The ankle straps of the Mueller Sports Medicine ATF 2 Ankle Brace self-adjust to support your Anterior Talofibular Ligament and help protect against ‘rolling the ankle’ without restricting jumping, speed or agility. The ATF® 2 straps are lightweight and comfortable and help support weakened or sprained ankles. Now replaced by the ATF 3 Ankle Brace.
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ATF 3 Ankle Brace
Lace Up Ankle Brace
Rated 5.00 out of 5

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The Mueller Sports Medicine ATF3 Ankle Brace is an easy on/off ankle support with a patented internal strapping system that will self adjust to support your Anterior Taliofibular Ligament and help to prevent you rolling your ankle. It replaces the XLP and ATF 2 ankle supports.
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Body Armor Vario
Stirrup Ankle Brace
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Fine line treatment for posterior tibial tendonitis and peroneal tendonitis. Customizable varus/valgus heel disks and arch height. Designed by a board of certified foot and ankle specialists. Viable alternative to expensive custom ankle braces.
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Elastic Ankle Support
Ankle Sleeve
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Enjoy firm yet comfortable support for stiff, weak or sore ankles wearing the Mueller Sports Medicine Elastic Ankle Support. Fits either ankle.
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Elite Engineered Elastic Ankle Brace w/Figure-6 Strap & Stays
Ankle Brace with Straps
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With its high quality elastic construction and Figure-6 strap system, the McDavid Elite Engineered Elastic Ankle Brace offers a combination of support and comfort that will amaze your patients.
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Felt Horseshoe Pads
Wrap
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Precut felt horseshoe pads from Cramer Sports Medicine that will help save time and money when treating sports injuries such as sprains and strains.
- Particularly useful for wrapping lateral ankle sprains.
- Will protect the injured tissue without compromising athlete comfort
- Avoids the time and potential loss of material when cutting felt rolls
- Sold as a pack of 10
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Gel Ankle Brace
Ankle Brace with Straps
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The Mueller Gel Ankle Brace is designed to provide maximum support plus cold therapy to injured ankles to speed recovery & allow for an early return to action.
- Includes removable gel pads that may be frozen as necessary to apply cold therapy to reduce the pain of an acute ankle sprain;
- Lightweight design for optimal user comfort and patient compliance;
- Adjustable straps provide customized ankle support to reduce the stress on injured or weak ligaments;
- Stirrup design adds to the ankle support from this brace and further protects weak, injured or vulnerable joints;
- Recommended for use in the post injury period to speed recovery.
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Hg80 Premium Soft Ankle Brace with Straps
Ankle Brace with Straps
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The Mueller Sports Medicine Hg80 Ankle Brace With Straps has extra-long dynamic criss-cross figure-8 straps and a side heel-lock with side stirrup straps.
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Hg80 Premium Soft Shell Ankle Brace With Straps
Ankle Brace with Straps
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Mueller’s Premium Soft Shell Ankle Brace With Straps is lightweight, neoprene free and features a unique criss-cross strapping system to stabilize the ankle. It also uses their exclusive HydraCinn construction with in-built anti microbial protection against stains and odours.
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Mueller Green Adjustable Ankle Support
Ankle Brace with Straps
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The Mueller Green Adjustable Ankle Support features adjustable tension straps and soft, non-petroleum based neoprene blend to retain body heat and provide soothing warmth to help relieve pain and keep your ankle flexible.
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Mueller HG80 Hard Shell Ankle Brace
Ankle Brace with Straps
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The Mueller HG80 Hard Shell Ankle Brace is ultra comfortable, lightweight and neoprene free, thanks to its use of Mueller-exclusive HydraCinn fabric, a high-performance, moisture-wicking material with an anti-microbial barrier.
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Clinic Supplies
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On Sale
September 2024 Specials
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