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Knee & Ankle Sprains

A sprain involves overstretching or tearing the ligaments that support a joint, most commonly affecting the knee or ankle. Early care follows the RICE method, and physiotherapy then guides rehabilitation to restore strength, movement and a return to activity.
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Knee Sprain

What is a Knee Sprain?
Knee sprain is a common injury that occurs from overstretching of the ligaments that support the knee joint. A knee sprain occurs when the knee ligaments are twisted or turned beyond its normal range, causing the ligaments to tear.
Some of the common causes of a knee sprain include forceful twisting of the knee, suddenly stopping while running, direct blow to the knee, and a fall that results in landing on your knees. The factors that increase the risk of knee sprain include participation in sports activities such as skiing, poor coordination, poor balance, and inadequate flexibility and strength in your muscles and ligaments.
The most common symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, warmth and redness of the skin, and restricted movements. Pain will occur soon after injury and may increase upon moving the knee.
Your doctor will evaluate your condition with a physical examination and medical history review. Diagnostic tests such as X-ray and MRI scans may be ordered to confirm the condition.
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Assessing Knee

treatment & prevention for Knee Sprain

Treatment of a Knee Sprain
Immediately following a knee injury and before being evaluated by your doctor, you should initiate the R.I.C.E. method of treatment.
  • Rest: You must ensure that you get rest, as more damage could result from putting pressure on the injured area.
  • Ice: Ice packs should be applied over the injury to decrease swelling and pain. Ice should never be placed on the skin directly, instead, it should be applied over a towel on the affected area for 15-20 minutes, four times a day for several days.
  • Compression: Wrap your knee with an elastic bandage or compress it with the help of stockings to minimize the swelling and offer support.
  • Elevation: Elevate your knee above heart level to decrease swelling and pain.
After the RICE treatment, your doctor may suggest that you wear a sling, cast or brace to immobilize the knee joint and prevent it from further movement until complete healing. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed to decrease pain and swelling. Physical therapy includes range of motion exercises such as strengthening and stretching exercises, which help to regain the normal functioning of the knee.
There are a few preventive measures to reduce your risk of a knee sprain.
  • Ensure that you warm up or stretch before starting any physical activity or sports.
  • Ensure that you follow the proper technique for sports and exercises to decrease stress on your muscles, ligaments and tendons.
  • Make sure that you wear proper protective equipment during sports activities.
  • Take a break from sports when you get tired.
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Ankle Sprain

An ankle sprain refers to an injury to one or more of the ligaments around the ankle joint. Ligaments are strong elastic band-like tissues which attach one bone to another bone. Ankle ligaments are usually injured when they are over stretched, most commonly when the ankle is pulled into a position beyond its normal range.

The most common type of ankle sprain affects the ligaments on the outside of the ankle, by rolling the foot inwards. This may also be coupled with a perception of a pop or click. In the few hours following the injury, the ankle may swell and become difficult to move. Bruising may also be evident. It is often difficult to walk on a sprained ankle, however if there is immediate swelling and you are unable to weight bear, or the ankle appears an odd shape, you may need an x ray to rule out any bony injury.

A physiotherapist can help advise you through immediate management and apply local treatment to the area of injury. The physiotherapist will then help you through a rehabilitation programme to help you to return to your normal sports or activities.

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