Ankle Sprains - Dr Bruce E Ellison MD – Offices Near Sequoia Hospital & El Camino Hospital
A sprained ankle is a very common injury. Approximately 25,000 people experience ankle sprains daily. A sprained ankle can occur with athletes and non-athletes, children and adults. Ankle sprains may occur when participating in sports and physical fitness activities, or simply stepping on an uneven surface, or step down at an angle. The ligaments of the ankle hold the ankle bones and joint in position. These ligaments protect the ankle joint from abnormal movements-especially twisting, turning, and rolling of the foot. The ligaments usually stretch within their limits, and then go back to their normal positions. If there is a severe in-turning or out-turning of the foot relative to the ankle, the forces cause the ligaments to stretch beyond their normal length. When a ligament is forced to stretch beyond its normal range, a sprain occurs. A severe sprain causes actual tearing of the ligament elastic fibers. When excessive force is applied to the ankle’s soft tissue structur