How to Identify Types of Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains are a common injury and are often confused with ankle strains. Most people have overextended a ligament in their ankle, which is a strain and heals quickly. An ankle sprain is more severe--the stretching and tearing of ligaments and sometimes even ankle tendons. The most common form of a sprain is an inversion sprain where the ankle "rolls over" from the outside inward.

Instructions

• 1

  Determine if the injury is a strain or sprain. Ankle sprains are categorized in three types based on the level of severity. Type one is less severe and is characterized by mild pain, some swelling, but the ankle can still bear the person's weight and move, with some pain. Generally, if the pain goes away in a day or two, it's a strain. If it persists with some pain and stiffness, then it's a mild sprain.

• 2

  Examine the ankle. If the injured person cannot move the joint or put much weight on the ankle without moderate to severe pain, it's a type two or second degree ankle sprain.

• 3

  Identify the amount of swelling and pain as well as the overall loss of motion to determine if it's a third degree, or severe, sprain. If there is a total ligament rupture or the joint cannot be moved, it's probably a severe ankle sprain. Symptoms include severe initial pain followed by little or no pain, inability to put any weight in the foot, lots of swelling and requires medical attention.

• 4

  See a doctor immediately if the sprain is a type two or type three sprain. A type two sprain should be x-rayed for possible fracture, immobilized and treated with the R.I.C.E. method. This method stands for; rest, ice, compression and elevation. This method will also treat strains and mild ankle sprains.

• 5

  Go to the emergency room, your doctor or a specialist right away if you think you can identify the sprain as a third degree, or severe, ankle sprain. In this type of sprain, x-rays need to be taken to determine the severity and check for fractures. A severe sprain also needs to be put into a cast or fracture boot for at least two weeks in addition to the R.I.C.E. method and anti-inflammatory medication. In some cases, surgery is also needed to repair damaged tendons and ligaments.