Ankle Ligaments are the bands of tissue that connect bones to other bones in the ankle. They provide stability and support to the joint. A torn ligament in the ankle is a severe injury. The big question for runners is how to heal a torn ankle ligament fast. More importantly, what can you do to speed up your healing process? Firstly I will explain what a torn ankle ligament is.
What Is A Torn Ankle Ligament?
A torn ankle ligament is a widespread injury that occurs when the foot is turned inwards abnormally, as this happens when landing from a jump or during a sudden change in direction. The most common ligaments injured are the ATFL (anterior talofibular ligament) and the CFL (calcaneofibular ligament). These ligaments provide stability to the ankle joint as they help to prevent excessive inward movement of the foot.
What Are The Symptoms?
The most common symptom that you will suffer from a torn ankle ligament is pain. You may also feel a pop or snapping sensation during the injury. Other symptoms include:
– Swelling
– Tenderness
– Bruising
– Difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected leg
– Instability in the ankle joint
-A feeling of the ankle giving away
How Is Your Torn Ligament In The Ankle Diagnosed?
There are a few ways that a doctor can diagnose a torn ligament in the ankle.
The first way is through a physical examination, and the doctor will look at the ankle and feel for any swelling or pain. They will also ask the patient to move the ankle in different directions to see if there is any instability.
The second way to diagnose a torn ligament in the ankle is through an X-ray, which will show whether there is any bone damage associated with the injury.
The third way to diagnose a torn ligament in the ankle is through an MRI, which can show whether there is any damage to the ligaments or other soft tissue in the ankle.
Treatment of Torn Ankle Ligament
Various treatments are available for a torn ankle ligament, depending on the severity of the injury.
For a milder tear, conservative treatment such as rest, ice, and elevation may be enough to promote healing.
Rest
As soon as you are injured, stop running, and rest as much as possible, keeping as much weight as possible off the torn ligaments. You might damage the ligament if you don’t, further slowing recovery.
Ice
Apply an ice pack covered in a cloth over the affected ligaments every 20 minutes for the first 24 to 48 hours, as they will reduce swelling and bruising.
Compression
Wrap the affected ligaments with an elastic bandage to ensure they are not too tight. If it is too tight, it will stop circulation to the foot. Compression helps reduce swelling.
Elevation
Keep your foot elevated above your heart, reducing pain, throbbing, and swelling. If you are lying on the couch, raise your foot with pillows. The CDC recommends you keep your leg raised wherever possible, even when you’re not icing it.
Unfortunately, severe tears may require surgery to repair the damage. In addition, physical therapy is often necessary following surgery or a severe injury to help the patient regain range of motion and strength.
The Prognosis For A Torn Ankle Ligament?
The prognosis for a torn ankle ligament varies depending on the extent of the injury. For a minor tear, the prognosis is generally good, and full recovery can be expected. However, surgery may be required for a more severe tear, and the recovery time may be longer. In some cases, the ankle joint could be permanently damaged, and mobility may be affected.
How Long Does It Take To Heal An Ankle Ligament?
The answer to this question depends on the person and the injury. Most people heal quickly, while others take longer.
A mild ligament tear usually heals in between 1 to 3 weeks to heal properly.
A medium ligament tear generally heals between 4 and 6 weeks.
A bad ligament tear will take 3 to 6 months to heal properly.
Is It Safe To Repair Ankle Ligament Surgically?
There is some debate amongst medical professionals as to whether or not it is safe to repair ankle ligaments surgically. Some argue that the surgery is unnecessary and can do more harm than good, while others believe it is a necessary procedure that can help improve the long-term function of the ankle.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to have surgery should be made between the patient and their doctor, considering all of the risks and benefits.
How To Heal A Torn Ankle Ligament Fast?
You can do a few key things to ensure a speedy recovery from a torn ligament in your ankle injury. First, it is essential to get plenty of rest, give your ankle time to heal, and then ice the ankle for 20 minutes several times daily to reduce swelling and pain.
Next, keep the ankle elevated as much as possible to reduce swelling. Finally, physical therapy can help stretch and strengthen the ligaments around the ankle, which can speed up the healing process. If you follow these steps, you should be on your way to recovery in no time!
Final Thoughts
Ankle ligament tears are a common running injury, particularly in athletes. If you’re experiencing pain and instability in your ankle so, then it’s important to get it checked out by a doctor.
Treatment for a torn ligament will vary depending on the extent of the tear and how long ago it occurred. Hopefully, you will fully recover within six months, though sometimes surgery may be recommended for more severe tears.
By understanding the basics of ankle ligament tears, including how they happen, how they’re diagnosed, and how they’re treated, you can take steps to ensure a speedy and successful recovery from your injury.
Have you ever experienced this type of injury? Feel free to share your story in the comments below.
