:: foot & ankle associates ::

Grade I ankle sprains are often from a slight turning of the ankle without significant swelling or pain. The region is very slightly tender and there is no feeling of looseness to the ankle. There is also minimal pain to ambulation.

Grade II ankle sprains are most involved usually due to a partial tear of one or more ligaments at the ankle level. This is the most commonly involved category and also the one most likely to be under treated. In such a sprain, there is often mild swelling and some bruising noted. The foot can be placed on the ground, but there is tenderness to certain motions. There is often pain with increased activity and tenderness to direct pressure on the sprain region.

Grade III ankle sprains are the most common presenting type to emergency rooms. Most emergency rooms will rule out a fracture, but do very little in the treatment of the sprained ankle. With a grade III injury, there is a complete tear of one or more ligaments of the ankle joint. Literature research shows cartilage or tendon damage complicating such sprains in 30-40% of cases. There is often extreme swelling and tenderness and pain to any ambulation. There is bruising noted and often pain to any form of ankle motion.