Grades of Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains are graded by the location of the injury and the degree of damage to the ligament (the tough fibrous tissue that holds the ankle together). Typically, we speak about a grade I, 2 or 3 ankle sprain. These sprains can hurt when they first happen but usually calm down for an hour or so. As they start to swell they begin to hurt more and become discolored, depending upon the extent of injury. The worse the sprain, the more intense the swelling and bruising.
Mild - Grade 1:
This grade is given when the body has been taken past its normal range of motion and the ligaments that hold the joints together have been overstretched but not torn.
Symptoms:
- Little to no swelling, which is usually localized directly over the sprained joint.
- Mild pain
- Mildly limited range of motion
- Weight bearing and walking are still possible.
Prognosis: Usually you can resume normal activities within 1-2 weeks.
Treatment: Treatment for Grade 1 Ankle Sprain
Moderate - Grade 2:
This is the most common type of sprain and can include the relatively mild, partial ligament tears with a little swelling to severe ankle sprains that inhibit weight bearing or use of the joint.
Symptoms:
- Intense swelling
- Moderate pain
- Moderate loss of motion or use of the joint
- Walking can be impaired
Prognosis: Normal activities can usually be resumed within 2 to 4 weeks of the injury.
Treatment: Treatment for Grade 2 Ankle Sprain
Severe - Grade 3:
This injury is much less common and requires medical evaluation and care. This grade is from 50% to complete tearing of the ligament.
Symptoms:
- Intense swelling
- Extreme loss of motion
- Intense pain
- Painful weight bearing
Prognosis: Healing time is usually 12 weeks to 1 year; condition can become chronic depending on the way the ligament is repaired or the way it heals.
Treatment: Treatment for Grade 3 Ankle Sprain
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