Ligaments of the foot and Metatarsal fracture

An ankle sprain is a sudden twist, sideways motion, or a misstep. When your foot lands off-balance, muscles may give way, allowing the ankle joint to move too far. If ligament connections to the foot and ankle bones overstretch and tear, a sprain is the result. Ligaments of the foot and ankle may also rupture and cause a fracture of the bone. These sudden injuries are painful at the time of injury and throughout the healing process. Depending on the grade of sprain, pain, swelling and bruising may extend from your ankle into your foot. Sprains can heal correctly with proper care. 90% of ankle injuries usually occur on the outside of the ankle. The reduction of risk of reinjury can also be prevented.

TREATING ANKLE SPRAINS
Before recommending treatment, your doctor examines your ankle and foot. The examination should rule-out fractures, by X-ray. The damaged ligaments, tendons, or any displaced bones or Joints will also be examined. Depending on the severity of the injury, treatment may range from pain control to immobilization of the Joint. If the sprain is severe, or if bone is damaged, surgery may be indicated. A Cat Scan or MRI may also be utilized to determine the full extent of injury and damage.

ELEVATE the sprained ankle. Early weight bearing and ambulation have shown to be beneficial. Casts are not usually recommended. Physical therapy and exercise programs will be tailored to help strengthen the muscles surrounding the ankle to decrease instability and to increase the range of motion.

SEVERE ANKLE SPRAINS
In more severe sprains, a sprain may completely tear a ligament, or pull it away from the bone. This type may require arthroscopic or open ankle surgery. After surgery, the patient is ambulating in a universal walker usually coupled with an ankle brace.