SPRAINS & STRAINS
Sprains are the stretching and tearing of ligaments. Ligaments connect bones to bones, to help keep bones in proper alignment. Strains are stretching and tearing of muscles and tendons. Tendons connect muscles to bones to cause movement of the bone when the muscle contracts.
The foot is an intricate structure containing 26 bones, 33 joints, 107 ligaments, 19 muscles and tendons. These different structures work together to allow the foot to support our body weight and hold the foot together and allow it to move. The foot and ankle are prone to sprains and strains. This is because of the amount of weight that is placed on them with every step. It is also due to the uneven surfaces that we walk and run on.
The ankle is the most commonly sprained joint in the human body. The ankle is often sprained during sporting events, such as basket-ball or tennis, but can be sprained during something as simple as walking. Over 90 % of ankle sprains are to the outer (lateral) part of the ankle. The lateral part of the ankle has fewer and smaller ligaments than the inner (medial) part of the ankle. When the lateral part of the ankle is sprained, 80% of the time it involves the Anterior Talo-Fibular (ATF) ligament.
The foot also experiences sprains, but not as often as the ankle. The joints of the foot are usually less mobile than the ankle, therefore decreasing the likelihood of hyper-extending the joints. A common example of a sprain in the foot is Turf Toe. This is a condition where the big toe is over extended during rigorous sporting activities. This is most often seen in sports such as football, where the cleats may become trapped in the artificial turf and the player's body continues to move and exert pressure on the big toe joint. You may experience sprains and strains in other parts of the foot as well.
If walking or involved in athletic activities, stop the activity and be seated with the injured foot or ankle elevated. Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation (RICE) should be employed to reduce pain and swelling. This is most critical during the first 24 - 72 hours. It is also helpful to wrap the foot and ankle in an elastic bandage (Ace bandage) to reduce swelling.
If you are experiencing any of these signs or symptoms, call today for an appointment.