Ankle injuries are fairly common among individuals of all ages. While most people will experience a sprained ankle at some point or another, there are various types and other injuries you can sustain. Here are the most common types of ankle injuries that occur. 

5 Types of Ankle Injuries

1. High Ankle Sprain

A high ankle sprain, also referred to as a syndesmotic sprain, occurs above the ankle joint. This is when the lower part of the leg and foot externally rotates, causing a sprain of the syndesmotic ligaments. These are the ligaments that connect the tibia and fibula bones in the lower leg, which is why it's referred to as a high sprain. 

This type of sprained ankle should heal in a couple of weeks with plenty of rest, ice, compression, and elevation. 

2. Inversion Ankle Sprain 

An inversion ankle sprain is the most common type of ankle injury that occurs in individuals of all ages. It's when your ankle rolls inward, into an inverted position. This causes the outside ligaments on your ankle to stretch and overextend. 

Most inversion ankle sprains can heal in a few days, but serious injuries may take up to a few months. Talk to your doctor if your sprain hasn't improved in a few days for further treatment advice. 

3. Eversion Sprains

Eversion ankle sprains are the opposite of inversion, where your foot twists outward. When individuals experience this type of sprained ankle, the medial and deltoid ligaments on the inside of their foot are affected. 

These are less common but can be more severe. The best way to expedite treatment of eversion ankle sprains is to see your doctor and avoid putting weight on your foot. 

4. Ankle Dislocation

If you experience an ankle dislocation, it's important to seek medical attention. They occur when an external force or pressure causes the ankle to flex outside of its normal range of motion, where it gets stuck out of place. 

Dislocations may simultaneously occur with a sprained ankle or even a fracture and usually require surgery to stabilize the joints and ensure proper healing. 

5. Ankle Fracture

Ankle fractures are another severe type of injury, as they involve broken bones. Fractures can result in small breaks or multiple breaks along a specific bone. This can cause problems with walking and requires professional medical attention to ensure proper healing. Ankle fractures may require surgery, casts, and plenty of rest to allow your bones to heal properly. 

If you experience any type of ankle injury, see the podiatrists at St. Peters Foot & Ankle: Samual T. Wood-DPM, LLC. Their team of professionals has over 20 years of experience and services residents within a 35-mile radius around St. Peters and Florissant, MO. Whether you've experienced a sprained ankle or other foot-related complication, they'll provide you with treatment plans for your lifestyle. To learn more about their services, visit their website or call (636) 720- 0190 to schedule an appointment.