Most of the whole body weight when walking, takes over the ankle joint, thus performing a supporting function. It is not surprising that with careless movements or accidental mechanical injuries, this part of the leg is exposed to injury. The most common diagnosis in this case - stretching or rupturing the ligaments of the ankle, requiring immediate treatment and subsequent rehabilitation.
Rupture of ligaments of the ankle joint - symptoms
The disease in question is characterized either by microscopic damage to collagen fibers in the ankle, or by a complete rupture of the entire ligament. They arise because of sudden and unusual for this part of the body movements, which exceed the load in its amplitude in the normal state.
The main signs indicating the rupture of ligaments of the ankle joint:
- swelling, increasing with time;
- changes in leg mobility: with a trauma of mild and moderate severity - deterioration, at full rupture - increase;
- hematoma in the area of injury;
- increase in temperature of surrounding tissues;
- severe pain during palpation, movement, attempts to step on foot.
Partial rupture of ligaments of the ankle is manifested in these symptoms, but less intense, discomfort occurs solely when the injured limb is loaded. It is worth noting that this injury is often confused with the usual bruise or dislocation. The rupture of the deltoid ligament of the ankle usually accompanies fractures in the area of the leg in question, it is very rare to find one on its own. To recognize such a trauma is difficult, an accurate diagnosis can be made only after an X-ray study.
Rupture of ligaments of the ankle joint - treatment
First of all, it is necessary to provide the damaged limb with absolute rest, to immobilize it by means of gypsum or immobilizing dressings for a period of 1-2 days (with weak and severe trauma) up to several weeks (with complete ligament rupture). Moreover, it is necessary to stabilize the joint with the help of elastic bandage and try to lessen the burden of the foot, restrict walking.
If pain occurs in the first hours after stretching, ice should be applied to the damaged area for 15-20 minutes, repeat this procedure every hour. It is also necessary to try to lift the injured leg in a supine position just above the thorax.
Medications are prescribed to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation, for example, aspirin, ibuprofen. Acceleration of healing of collagen fibers of the joint is achieved due to biologically active additives to the diet.
Surgical treatment of ankle ligament rupture is carried out with severe injuries and consists in their stitching with a special needle.
Rupture of ligaments of the ankle joint - rehabilitation and rehabilitation
The length of the rehabilitation period depends on the degree of injury received, age and general condition of the person.
Comprehensive activities:
- wearing a fixative bandage;
- use of instep arresters and special shoes with firm backs and a wide bow;
- exercise under the supervision of an orthopedist. Therapeutic physical training is mainly in the rotation, extension and flexion of the ankle joint with a gradual increase in the load.
Severe injuries and recovery after surgery involve the use of crutches and then a walking stick. And only with the restoration of the ankle can begin to engage in physical exercises.