A twisted and swollen ankle is medically referred to as a sprained ankle. The ankle contains a series of ligaments that hold the ankle joint and bones in the correct place. The ligaments are meant to keep the ankle from twisting, turning or rolling, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. In most instances, ligaments do this by stretching to allow movement and then returning to normal.
Causes
When the ligament is stretched further than its limits, it is called a sprain. A ligament is stretched when the foot twists or rolls beyond its normal range of movement and the ankle twists. This often occurs during intense physical exercise or when playing contact sports. A sprain can also occur when the foot lands with excess force on an uneven surface. MayoClinic.com notes that a severe fall can also cause the ankle to twist, resulting in a sprain.
Types
The severity of an ankle sprain depends on the extent to which the ligament is stretched out of its normal range. Ankle sprains are classified by grades depending on the severity. A grade 1 sprain occurs as a result of minor stretching and minor damage to fibers in the ligament. Grade 2 sprains are classified by partial tearing of the ligament and an abnormally loose feeling in the ankle, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Grade 3 sprains are the most serious form of sprain and are characterized by a complete tear of the ligament.
Symptoms
The symptoms of an ankle sprain include pain and tenderness in the ankle; swelling, bruising, coldness and numbness in the foot; and stiffness with a restricted range of motion. A sprained ankle will also cause difficulty walking and an inability to put any pressure on the ankle joint, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Treatment
An ankle sprain can usually be effectively treated with over-the-counter pain medications and physical therapy exercises. An ankle brace may be necessary to immobilize the joint and further promote healing, according to MayoClinic.com. If the ankle joint cannot repair itself correctly, surgery may be required to fix the joint and repair the torn ligaments.
Complications
If an ankle sprain is left untreated, it can result in permanent complications, such as chronic pain in the ankle and instability of the ankle joint. Some people who have left ankle sprains untreated will experience an early onset of arthritis.
