Genesee County Health Department

Better Life Through Better Health

It may be a twist of fate, but it is bound to happen. Any sudden movement that forces a joint to go beyond the normal range of motion can result in a sprain or injured ligament. Ligaments are tissues that connect a bone to a joint.

Ankle sprains are the most common, especially during warmer weather when more time is spent outside running, hiking or playing volleyball. During fall and winter, playing basketball often leads to ankle sprains, due to jumping and landing incorrectly.

Sprains range in severity, from mildly stretched ligaments to partially or completely torn ligaments. Pain, swelling and bruising may be present and will vary in intensity with the degree of injury. Those with severe sprains will have the most difficulty walking or bearing weight. Swelling can make the area feel numb and joints can lock or be difficult to move. Sprains not treated early or properly can result in improper healing, long-term disability, and chronic pain.

In the event of a sprain, seek advice from a health care professional. If the sprain seems minor and severe symptoms are not present, the sprain may be able to be treated at home by using R.I.C.E: Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. Injury-prone people may want to instead remember I.C.E.R, the sequence in which to apply treatment:

• Ice the injured area immediately to reduce swelling.
• Compress the area of injury by wrapping it with an elastic bandage.
• Elevate the injured part to further reduce swelling.
• Rest the injured area for at least 24 to 48 hours.

To avoid ankle sprains, wear high-top shoes or an over-the-counter ankle brace. For more information, call the Genesee County Health Department, (810) 257-3612.