What Happens During an Ankle Sprain Evaluation?

Published: Feb 11, 2024

Getting your ankle sprain checked is crucial for recovery. Here's what to expect during an evaluation.

Initial Assessment

The doctor will ask about the injury's history, including how it happened and if you could walk afterward. This information helps determine if you need further imaging, like X-rays, to rule out fractures.

Physical Examination Techniques

During the exam, the doctor will check for swelling, bruising, and tenderness around the ankle. They might perform tests like the anterior drawer or talar tilt to assess ligament damage and ankle stability.

An evaluation procedure for diagnosing and assessing the severity of an ankle sprain. It includes history taking, physical examination, and stability tests.

When Imaging is Necessary

If a fracture is suspected, X-rays are typically used to confirm the diagnosis. The Ottawa ankle rules help decide if imaging is needed based on specific symptoms and the injury mechanism.

Frequently Asked Questions

They'll ask about how the injury happened and your ability to walk afterward.

The doctor checks for swelling, bruising, and performs ligament stability tests.

X-rays are needed if there's a risk of fracture based on symptoms and injury history.

Key Takeaways

A thorough evaluation ensures proper treatment and recovery for ankle sprains.

Get started with Doctronic for an expert evaluation of your ankle sprain.

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References

Bachmann LM, Kolb E, Koller MT, et al. Accuracy of Ottawa ankle rules to exclude fractures.

van Dijk CN, Lim LS, Bossuyt PM, Marti RK. Physical examination is sufficient for the diagnosis of sprained ankles.

Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.