What to Know About a Deltoid Ligament Sprain
The deltoid ligament is a thick, triangular ligament that connects the medial malleolus (the bony bump on the inside of your ankle) to the navicular bone (one of the small bones in the middle of your foot). This ligament helps to support the arch of your foot and prevents it from collapsing inwards.
Deltoid ligament sprains are often caused by:
- Rolling your ankle inward
- Falling onto an outstretched foot
- Sudden changes in direction while running or playing sports
- Wearing shoes that provide inadequate support
Symptoms of a deltoid ligament sprain:
- Pain on the inside of your ankle
- Swelling and bruising around your ankle
- Difficulty walking or bearing weight on your injured foot
- Tenderness to the touch over the deltoid ligament
If you think you have a deltoid ligament sprain, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Your doctor will be able to confirm the diagnosis and recommend the best course of treatment.
Treatment for a deltoid ligament sprain typically involves:
- Rest: Avoid putting weight on the injured foot as much as possible.
- Ice: Apply ice to the affected area for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
- Compression: Wrap your ankle with an elastic bandage to help reduce swelling.
- Elevation: Keep your injured foot elevated above the level of your heart to help reduce swelling.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: You may be given medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Physical therapy: Once the swelling and pain have subsided, your doctor may recommend physical therapy to help improve your ankle range of motion, balance, and strength.
In most cases, deltoid ligament sprains heal completely with conservative treatment. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged ligament.