Ankle Weakness and Pain After Basketball Injuries

Ankle injuries from sports?

Hello Doctor, last Thursday while playing basketball, I experienced a sudden feeling of weakness (with a slight tingling sensation) in my ankle during a jump shot.
When I landed, I felt a bit weak but was still able to support myself (there was no ankle sprain).
After resting for a moment, there were no bruises or swelling.
However, a few days later while playing again, I experienced a similar situation when jumping for a rebound, and this time the sensation lasted longer.
I haven't had any ankle sprains recently, and walking hasn't been particularly inconvenient or uncomfortable.
However, since that day, my ankle has been prone to a dull ache, especially on the posterior and lateral sides, though the pain is not constant.
Additionally, I hear a popping sound when I rotate my ankle counterclockwise.

Tang Tongxue, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/01

Dr. Wang Zhaomin reply Rehabilitation

There are many ligaments near the ankle joint that serve to stabilize different bones.
If a mild sprain occurs, it may not cause pain but can affect joint stability.
It is advisable to rest, avoid vigorous activities, and use protective gear.
Additionally, applying heat or soaking in warm water may be beneficial.
If symptoms do not improve or worsen, it is important to seek medical attention from an orthopedic or rehabilitation specialist as soon as possible.

Reply Date: 2020/04/01

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing some concerning symptoms following your basketball activities, particularly related to your ankle. Based on your description, it seems that you may be dealing with a combination of ankle instability and potential soft tissue injury, which can occur after sudden movements like jumping and landing.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Weakness and Numbness: The feeling of weakness and a "numb" sensation in your ankle during landing could indicate a strain or minor injury to the ligaments or tendons around the ankle. This is not uncommon in sports that require jumping and quick lateral movements, such as basketball.

2. Delayed Pain: The fact that you experienced pain a few days after the initial incident suggests that there may be some underlying soft tissue damage, such as a sprain or strain. Even if there is no visible swelling or bruising, micro-tears in the ligaments or tendons can lead to discomfort and instability.

3. Clicking or Popping Sounds: The "clicking" or "popping" sounds when you rotate your ankle could be due to several factors, including tendon movement over bony structures, or it could indicate a more serious issue such as a loose body in the joint. These sounds can sometimes accompany instability or inflammation in the joint.

Recommended Actions
1. Rest and Ice: Initially, it’s crucial to rest the ankle and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. Ice can help reduce any inflammation that may develop, even if it’s not immediately visible.

2. Compression and Elevation: Using a compression bandage can help manage swelling and provide support. Elevating the ankle can also assist in reducing any potential swelling.

3. Gradual Return to Activity: Once the acute symptoms subside, gradually reintroduce activities. Start with low-impact exercises that do not put excessive strain on the ankle.
4. Strengthening and Stability Exercises: Engaging in physical therapy or specific exercises aimed at strengthening the muscles around the ankle can be beneficial. Focus on balance and proprioception exercises, which can help improve stability and prevent future injuries.

5. Consult a Specialist: If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult an orthopedic specialist. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI, to assess for any soft tissue injuries or structural issues that may not be visible on X-rays.

Prevention Strategies
1. Warm-Up and Stretching: Always perform a proper warm-up before engaging in sports. This should include dynamic stretches that prepare your muscles and joints for the activity.

2. Ankle Support: Consider using ankle braces or supportive footwear during basketball to provide additional stability, especially if you have a history of ankle issues.

3. Strength Training: Incorporate exercises that strengthen the ankle and surrounding muscles into your regular training routine. This can help improve overall joint stability.

4. Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to any signs of discomfort or weakness. If you feel any unusual sensations in your ankle during activity, it’s important to stop and assess the situation to prevent further injury.

Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms suggest that you may be experiencing some degree of ankle instability or soft tissue injury following your basketball activities. Implementing rest, ice, and gradual rehabilitation exercises can help you recover. However, if symptoms persist, seeking professional medical advice is crucial to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Remember, taking care of your body and addressing injuries early can help you return to the court stronger and more resilient.

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