Definition

an ankle strain is the overstretchng or tear of any of the muscles or tendons of the ankle. As with any muscle or tendon strain it occurs at the weakest point of the muscle or tendon, and that normally is were the muscle attaches to the tendon.

Parts Involved

• muscles and tendons that support and surround the ankle

• bones of the lower leg and ankle, tibia, fibula and the talus bone

• any of the tissues surrounding the ankle such as nerves, blood vessels and lymph

Signs & Symptoms

• Muscle spasm in the calf muscles

• pain is elicited when stretching or moving the ankle

• pain upon palpation of the ankle and injured area

• inflammation and swelling of the ankle

• loss of motion and strength, only with grade 2 or 3 strains

Causes

• repetitive movements of the muscles and tendons

• extreme force to the ankle resulting from a sport or accident

• awkward movement or range of motion which leads to the overstretching of the muscle and its tendon

Risks

• Poor diet

• sports with contact and high force impacts

• pre existing ankle injury

• muscles that are out of shape

• overweight

• sudden changes in direction such as basketball etc

Prevention

If a previous ankle injury exist you should wrap or tape your ankle to help provide support. One should also develop a strength and flexibility program which is geared towards the activity they do or the sport. Wearing proper shoes is also important as shoes provide a proper platform for the foot and ankle and also help support the ankle. with all of this being said the one thing you should not do without is a proper warm up before any activity!

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