With nearly 25,000 ankle sprains occurring in the United Stated each day, by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons' count, an ankle sprain at the gym is not a rare occurrence. With a wide variety of exercise equipment and classes to choose from, you may be engaging in exercises that you are not familiar with. A sprained ankle can occur as the result of treadmill use or participating in an aerobics class. While ankle sprains are normally minor, it is important to take care of an ankle sprain.
Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains occur as the result of twisting, rolling or turning your ankle out of its normal range of motion. This can occur during sports or exercise or during daily activities such as walking. An ankle sprain is the stretching or tearing of the ligaments in your ankle joint. When ligaments are forced outside of their normal range of motion, a sprain or a complete tear of your ligaments may occur. Repeat ankle sprains can lead to chronic ankle pain.
Risk Factors
You are more likely to sustain an ankle sprain if you have already had an ankle sprain in the past and failed to treat it correctly. You may also be more likely to sprain your ankle if you have poor balance or weak muscles in your lower legs.
Types
There are three different types of ankle sprains. A first-degree sprain causes little stretching of the ligaments. Your joint is likely to be fully functional and you may experience mild pain, swelling or joint stiffness. A second-degree sprain causes mild tearing to your ankle ligaments. You may experience ankle instability, moderate to severe pain, swelling and stiffness. A third-degree ankle sprain results in a complete rupture of your ankle ligament. You will lose range of motion and be unable to move your joint. There will be severe pain and swelling if you tear the ligament in your ankle.
Treatment
Treatment is imperative in order to prevent chronic pain and instability in your ankle. Immediately following your injury, you should rest your ankle and ice it several times a day for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. You can also use a compression bandage to help reduce swelling and try to elevate you ankle above your heart as much as possible for the first two days. If pain persists, contact your physician. A splint may be used to help immobilize your ankle as well as anti-inflammatory medication. For a severe grade three sprain, your doctor is likely to cast your ankle for two to three weeks. During this time, you may be using crutches to keep weight off of your ankle as it heals. Regardless of the type of sprain, rehabilitation is important. Physical therapy will help to increase your balance, flexibility and strength.
Prevention
In order to prevent ankle sprains, always warm up for five to 10 minutes before you work out at the gym. Learn how to use all the equipment at the gym and ease into more difficult activities. Wear shoes that fit appropriately and replace them if they become worn. In addition, use an ankle brace is you are prone to ankle injuries. Most importantly, listen to your body. If you are tired or feel pain, take a break.
