Check out the ‘Signs of Torn Ligament in the Ankle’ Strong, fibrous fibers called ligaments hold bones together. The ankle joint is stabilized by a number of ligaments surrounding the ankle. When the ankle is injured by twisting, these ligaments may be ripped or strained.
The most frequent twisting injury, as stated by the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society, turns the foot’s sole inside and toward the opposite foot. The ligaments on the outside of the ankle are harmed by this.
A full ligament tear results in a severe sprain, while a partial tear only results in a moderate sprain. Ankle ligament tears are characterized by pain, a popping sound, edema, bruising, stiffness, and instability. Symptoms of a severe ankle sprain are usually severe and can resemble those of an ankle fracture.
Signs of Torn Ligament in the Ankle
Pain and Popping
The most frequent initial symptom of an ankle ligament tear, whether partial or full, is pain. The location of the torn ligament typically experiences the most pain, which can range from mild to severe. A full ligament tear may cause a popping sound to be audible at the time of the accident.
Swelling and Bruising
Due to localized bleeding and inflammation, ankle swelling from a partial or total ligament tear occurs. Blood seeps into the tissues beneath the surface, causing bruises as well. The severity of the ligament tear generally determines the degree of swelling and bruising; it is mild with a partial tear and severe with a full tear. Within the first few days following the injury, swelling and bruising may get worse.
Stiffness and Instability
After a partial or total ligament tear, ankle stiffness is frequently caused by swelling, bruising, and pain. When someone tries to stand on the leg with a complete rip, the ankle will also feel shaky.
Next Steps
If you can’t put weight on your ankle, and have moderate to severe ankle pain, swelling, or bruising, see a doctor. To assess if you have a fracture or a serious sprain, you might need to get an x-ray. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, ruptured ligaments may not heal adequately in the absence of sufficient care, resulting in recurrent ankle sprains, persistent ankle pain, or ankle arthritis. It may take weeks or months to fully recover from severe ankle sprains.
For injured ankle ligaments, the standard course of treatment is rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Pain can be managed with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Crutches are typically used up until the ankle can support weight on its own.
When treating severe sprains, support and healing aids like a short leg cast, an air- or gel-filled ankle brace, or a removable walking boot are frequently employed. Restoring the ankle’s usual range of motion as soon as the pain and swelling subside is crucial for avoiding long-term stiffness. Physical therapy is frequently advised to assist patients to regain their range of motion and building their ankle muscles.
If the torn ligament is coupled with another injury, such as a fracture, surgery can be required. Even in cases of severe sprains without additional injuries or in cases of persistent ankle instability, surgery may be advised.
