Causes, symptoms and treatment
Sprains and ligament injuries of the ankle joint are among the most common injuries of all. Based on data from comparable countries, more than one million people are estimated to experience an ankle joint injury every year in Germany alone. The lateral ligament complex of the ankle joint is affected in 85 per cent of these cases.
Causes
Type of ligament injury
Degree of severity of the injury and its symptoms
Ligament injuries in the ankle joint are broken down into three degrees of severity:
Diagnosis
The doctor first examines the foot to determine whether there are movement limitations, heat, swelling, reddening, protruding bones, etc. The circumstances that led to the injury, where the pain is located and any prior injuries or pre-existing conditions in this area are clarified in a consultation. Further examinations such as X-rays or MRIs are carried out depending on the results.
Therapy
Early functional mobilisation treatment for ligament injuries in the ankle joint has become the standard today. As a rule, this consists of protection, rest, ice, compression and elevation directly after the injury. Light movement exercises without placing weight on the joint commence as soon as 48 to 72 hours after the injury in order to restore the range of motion and muscle strength. After the swelling goes down, the ankle joint is stabilised with an orthosis and weight bearing is gradually built up again over two to four weeks.
Accompanying sensorimotor training is also desirable and should commence as soon as possible, generally after three to four weeks.
Back to everyday activities: three steps to an Ottobock orthosis
- Here you’ll find an overview of all the orthoses and supports that could potentially help you. Take the list with you to your next doctor’s appointment.
- Talk to your doctor about which orthosis is best suited to your symptoms and condition. Your doctor can then write you a prescription for the appropriate orthosis.
- Take your prescription to a medical supply company. They’ll give you your new orthosis and adjust it to fit your exact body measurements.