Sprained ankle

Sprained Ankle

A sprained ankle (pronunciation: /ˈspreɪnd ˈæŋkəl/) is a common injury that occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are overstretched or torn. This can happen during physical activities, such as sports, or even during everyday activities, such as walking on an uneven surface.

Etymology

The term "sprained ankle" comes from the Middle English word "spraynen," which means to twist or wrench, and the Old English word "ancleow," which means ankle.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a sprained ankle can include:

Pain: This is usually the first symptom of a sprained ankle. The pain can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of the injury.
Swelling: The ankle may become swollen due to inflammation.
Bruising: Bruises may appear on the skin around the ankle.
Difficulty walking: It may be hard to walk or put weight on the injured ankle.

Treatment

Treatment for a sprained ankle can include:

Rest: It's important to rest the injured ankle to allow it to heal.
Ice: Applying ice to the ankle can help reduce swelling and pain.
Compression: Wrapping the ankle in a bandage can help provide support and reduce swelling.
Elevation: Elevating the ankle above the level of the heart can help reduce swelling.
Physical therapy: This can help restore strength and flexibility to the ankle.

Prevention

Prevention strategies for a sprained ankle can include:

Proper footwear: Wearing shoes that provide good support can help prevent ankle sprains.
Warm up: Warming up before physical activity can help prepare the muscles and ligaments for action.
Balance exercises: These can help improve stability and prevent falls that can lead to ankle sprains.