Causes of Chronic Ankle Sprain
There are two causes of chronic ankle sprains – loss of structural integrity and functional instability.
Loss of structural integrity occurs when there is significant injury or tear in the 3 lateral ankle ligaments – the anterior talofibular ligament, posterior talofibular ligament, or the calcaneofibular ligament.
Functional instability occurs when the ankle did not undergo proper rehabilitation. An acute ankle sprain causes proprioception, muscle coordination and postural control to be affected, and these are responsible for maintaining balance.
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Signs and Symptoms of Chronic Ankle Sprain
Signs and symptoms of chronic ankle sprain include:
- Dull aching pain over the ankle after prolonged activity
- Chronic swelling at the ankle
- Feeling a sense of instability when walking, or feeling as if the foot is going to “give way”
- Recurrent twisting of the ankle when walking
- Hypermobile or excessive range of motion at the ankle
Chronic Ankle Sprain Management in Singapore
Management of chronic ankle sprain involves treating any injured ligaments and a process of ankle rehabilitation.
Treatment options in Singapore include:
- Customised Foot Orthoses to provide ankle stability support
- Ankle-Foot Orthoses for severe cases of swelling and ligament damage
- Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy to reduce any chronic pain and swelling
- Ankle strengthening and proprioception training
- Physical therapy
- For cases with severe ligament rupture, swelling and pain, surgery may be necessary
