Table of Contents
Does a sprained ankle need an X-ray?
Excessive swelling or bruising is a common occurrence after an ankle sprain, but this alone does not warrant an X-ray or immediate medical attention. Numbness, tingling, severe pain, or any other concerning complaint requires more immediate evaluation.
When should you get an X-ray for sprained ankle?
X-rays only required if there are bony pain in the malleolar or midfoot area, and any one of the following: Bone tenderness along the distal 6cm of the posterior edge of the tibia or tip of the medial malleolus. Bone tenderness along the distal 6cm of the posterior edge of the fibula or tip of the lateral malleolus.
Will X-Ray Show torn ligament in ankle?
Plain X-rays are important to rule out a fracture but often appear normal in a typical ankle sprain or ligament tear. X-rays will not be able to differentiate between a high or low grade ligament injury or injuries that cause cartilage damage or subtle fractures.
Can you see a sprain on an X-ray?
While a sprain will not show on an x-ray, the imaging can help rule out a broken ankle or foot bone. Persistent swelling: If you have swelling that doesn’t go down after several days, an x-ray can reveal if there is something else going on, such as a bone fracture or fluid around a joint.
How do you tell if a tendon is torn or strained?
Ruptured Tendon Symptoms
- A snap or pop you hear or feel.
- Severe pain.
- Rapid or immediate bruising.
- Marked weakness.
- Inability to use the affected arm or leg.
- Inability to move the area involved.
- Inability to bear weight.
- Deformity of the area.
How do you know if you tore a ligament?
There are several signs and symptoms of a torn ligament, including:
- Snapping, popping or a crackling sound when the injury occurs.
- Pain that doesn’t improve within 24 to 72 hours.
- Swelling that doesn’t lessen within 24 to 72 hours.
- Bruising.
- Limited ability to move the joint.
- Inability to bear weight on joint.
Why does my ankle still swell after sprain treatment?
If you have sprained your ankle and despite conservative therapy are still having swelling and pain this is an important warning sign. Persistent swelling is an indication that there is underlying irritation and joint dysfunction. Most likely your continued ankle swelling is due to joint instability.
What are the signs and symptoms of a sprained ankle?
Signs and symptoms of a sprained ankle vary depending on the severity of the injury. They may include: Pain, especially when you bear weight on the affected foot. Tenderness when you touch the ankle. Swelling. Bruising. Restricted range of motion. Instability in the ankle.
How to return to running after a sprained ankle?
How to Return to Running After a Sprained Ankle Phase 1: Invest in Healing First Phase 2: Restore Ankle Range of Motion and Strength Phase 3: Return to Activity Phase 4: Strengthen Your Ankle Phase 5: Set Goals and Transition to Running Strategically
Why does my ankle hurt months after an inversion ankle sprain?
This patient has nagging pain at the side and back of the ankle months after an inversion ankle sprain. This pain is caused by torn tendons. If bracing and physical therapy does not resolve the ankle injury with time, the best treatment is surgery to repair the damaged tendons.