5 Things You Need to Know About Ankle Dislocation

1. Anatomy of an Ankle Injury

Ankle dislocations almost always occur with a sprain or fracture. When an ankle is dislocated, the adjoining bones in the joint are displaced to the point they no longer have contact with each other. During an ankle dislocation, the bones of the ankle, including the fibula, tibia and talus, ligaments and the soft tissue surrounding the dislocated bones, including tendons, muscles, nerves and blood vessels, are affected.

2. Diagnosing the Dislocation

The symptoms of an ankle dislocation are similar to a sprain or break, and an X-ray is typically needed to asses the damage. Ankle dislocations are excruciatingly painful and almost always immediately swell and bruise. The intensity of the pain might subside but the area of the dislocation remains tender, especially when touched. A dislocated ankle loses its function and the foot might become numb if blood vessels or nerves are pinched.

3. Risk Factor

Athletes who participate in contact sports are at risk for ankle dislocations, particularly athletes who don't use ankle support. Baseball players risk an ankle injury every time they slide into a base. Cross-country runners are also susceptible to ankle dislocations, because they run over uneven and rough terrain. Athletes with a past history of ankle injuries are likely to re-injure the joint. People with arthritis are also at risk for dislocating their ankles, as well as those with poor muscle tone.

4. Rest and Rehabilitation

Many ankle dislocations with a sprain or fracture require surgery. Surgical pins and screws are typically needed to reconstruct the joint. The pins and screws are taken out after 8 to 12 weeks, but in extreme cases might be left in permanently. Recovery from surgery typically takes approximately 4 1/2 to 6 months. Ankle dislocations that aren't repaired with surgery can take up a year to heal.

5. Keep it Together

Ankle dislocations can be prevented by adding ankle support to athletic gear. Athletes can tape their ankles or use an elastic wrap to add an element of support under their gear. Taking the time to get in a sufficient warm-up before a workout or game can go a long way in ankle injury prevention. Those who have had previous ankle injuries should add a high-intensity lower-body strength and conditioning program after the injury has been fully rehabilitated to increase the joint's strength and decrease the risk of re-injuring it. Running on uneven surfaces should be avoided.