Ankle Injuries

Injuries to the foot and ankle are very common. Ten per cent of all emergency hospital visits are for foot and ankle fractures and sprains. Due to its size, shape and function, the ankle receives more stress than any other joint in the body and is prone to injury.

Causes

Ankle fractures are most often caused by a twisting injury of the ankle with the ankle “rolling” inwards or outwards.

In addition, there are several bones in the foot which are prone to fracture as a result of “twisting” the ankle. The bones on the outside of the foot are particularly at risk and therefore the whole foot has to be examined thoroughly after what may appear to be a sprain.

A large proportion of foot and ankle injuries take place during sport. One large study of 12,000 sporting injuries showed that a quarter of all injuries involved the foot or ankle. We work to prevent these injuries before they occur. However receiving treatment at The Foot Clinic – 905-684-5953 as soon as possible after an injury is important to recovery.

Diagnosis

Assessment starts with a precise history of the injury. This often allows an accurate prediction of the structures likely to have been damaged. All bones, large and small joints, ligaments, tendons and peripheral nerves must be examined before imaging takes place and to determine which, if any, images should be ordered.

X-rays may be required along with CT and MRI scanning. Types of foot and ankle injuries:

  • Ligament injuries
  • Bone and ankle fractures
  • Cartilage and tendon damage
  • Tendon injuries

Summary

As there are so many structures in the foot and ankle that are at risk of being injured, it is important to seek early specialist advice. Often, the worst thing one can do with a significant “sprain” is to ignore it. Walking off the pain usually just doesn’t work and can reduce long term healing. With appropriate treatment, following foot and ankle injuries, it is possible to return to normal activities faster and long term problems can be prevented.

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