Ankle Ligament Tears: Symptoms, Recovery, and Surgery Insights

Ankle ligament rupture?

Hello, Doctor.
I would like to inquire about my left ankle ligament injury that occurred while playing basketball on August 20.
Since then, I have noticed that my foot swells up in the morning after elevating it, but the swelling becomes more pronounced as the day goes on.
Is this a normal phenomenon? I have been using crutches to walk and have visited the hospital for evaluation.
However, I would like to ask if having swelling for a month is considered normal.
Am I at risk of missing the optimal time for surgery, or could there be muscle atrophy? Additionally, my ankle's range of motion is very limited; I can only move it slightly forward and backward, which feels tight and restricted.
Is this also normal? After surgical treatment, will there be any long-term complications? How long will it take to recover? Thank you for your assistance, Doctor.

Awei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/09/11

Dr. Chen Bochen reply Orthopedics

1.
Performing ankle pump exercises can help reduce swelling (see attached image).

2.
The duration of swelling varies from person to person and depends on the severity of the injury; severe sprains or even ligament tears may require 6-8 weeks for recovery.

3.
Swelling can limit your range of motion.

4.
If surgical intervention is necessary, it indicates that the potential complications of non-surgical treatment are greater.

Reply Date: 2020/09/11

More Info

Ankle ligament tears, commonly resulting from sports injuries, can significantly impact mobility and overall quality of life. It’s essential to understand the symptoms, recovery process, and potential surgical interventions to manage these injuries effectively.

Symptoms of Ankle Ligament Tears
The primary symptoms of an ankle ligament tear include:
1. Swelling and Bruising: Swelling is often immediate and can worsen over time, especially if the ankle is not elevated. Bruising may also appear around the ankle and foot.

2. Pain: Pain can vary from mild to severe, often worsening with movement or weight-bearing activities.

3. Instability: A feeling of instability or weakness in the ankle is common, making it difficult to walk or perform activities that require balance.

4. Limited Range of Motion: As you mentioned, a restricted range of motion is typical following a ligament injury. This can manifest as difficulty moving the ankle in various directions.

Recovery Process
Recovery from an ankle ligament tear can be a lengthy process, often taking several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the injury. Here are some key points regarding recovery:
1. Initial Care: The R.I.C.E. method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) is crucial in the early stages to reduce swelling and pain. It’s essential to avoid putting weight on the injured ankle until advised by a healthcare professional.

2. Physical Therapy: Once the initial swelling decreases, physical therapy can help restore strength and flexibility. This is vital for regaining full function of the ankle.

3. Monitoring Swelling: It’s not uncommon for swelling to persist for several weeks, especially if the ankle is not adequately supported or if activity levels are too high. However, if swelling continues to worsen or does not improve, it’s essential to consult with your physician.

Surgical Considerations
In cases where conservative treatment does not yield satisfactory results, surgery may be necessary. Here are some insights regarding surgical intervention:
1. Timing: The “golden period” for surgery typically refers to the first few weeks post-injury. However, if significant swelling persists, it may delay surgery. It’s crucial to discuss your specific situation with an orthopedic surgeon to determine the best course of action.

2. Surgical Options: Surgery may involve repairing the torn ligaments or reconstructing them using grafts. The specific procedure will depend on the extent of the injury.

3. Post-Surgery Recovery: After surgery, rehabilitation is critical. Expect a recovery timeline of several months, during which physical therapy will play a significant role in regaining strength and mobility.

Potential Complications
While many patients recover well from ankle ligament surgery, some may experience complications, including:
1. Chronic Instability: Some individuals may continue to feel instability in the ankle even after surgery.

2. Stiffness: Limited range of motion can persist, necessitating ongoing physical therapy.

3. Pain: Some patients report chronic pain in the ankle post-surgery.

Conclusion
In your case, the persistent swelling and limited range of motion are concerning and warrant further evaluation by a healthcare professional. It’s essential to communicate openly with your doctor about your symptoms and concerns, as they can provide tailored advice based on your specific injury and recovery progress. If surgery is indicated, early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so don’t hesitate to seek further medical advice. Remember, recovery from an ankle ligament tear is a gradual process, and patience, along with appropriate medical care, is key to regaining full function.

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