Medial Ankle Ligament Sprain (Deltoid Ligament)

What is a deltoid ligament sprain?
The deltoid ligament is on the inside of the ankle and provides support to prevent the ankle over pronating. It is rare for the deltoid ligament to be sprained as the fibula bone tends to prevent the ankle from moving far enough to sprain or over stretch the ligament. A deltoid ligament sprain is often associated with a fracture of the fibula or other bones in the ankle.

Treatment of medial ankle ligament sprains
Treatment of a sprained ankle can be separated into immediate first aid and longer term rehabilitation and strengthening.

Immediate First Aid for a sprained ankle:
Aim to reduce the swelling by RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) as soon as possible.
-R is for rest. It is important to rest the injury to reduce pain and prevent further damage. Use crutches it necessary. Many therapists advocate partial weight bearing as soon as pain will allow. This is thought to accelerate rehabilitation.
-I is for ICE or cold therapy. Applying ice and compression can ease the pain, reduce swelling, reduce bleeding (initially) and encourage blood flow (when used later). Apply an ice pack or similar immediately following injury for 15 minutes. Repeat this every 2 hours.
-C is for compression - This reduces bleeding and helps reduce swelling. A Louisiana wrap bandaging technique is excellent for providing support and compression to a recently injured ankle.
-E is for Elevation - Uses gravity to reduce bleeding and swelling by allowing fluids to flow away from the site of injury. So put your feet up and get someone else to wait on you!
Following the initial painful stage, there are other treatments that can help the ankle return to normal as soon as possible. Range of motion exercises such as ankle circles can help to get the ankle moving again, as well as reducing swelling if performed with the leg elevated. The calf muscles often tighten up to protect the joint following a sprained ankle, and so gently stretching the calf muscles can also help to maintain movement at the joint.

What can a Podiatrist do about it?
-A podiatrist will undertake a thorough assessment of the injury so time is not wasted treating the wrong condition.
-A doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication (e.g. ibuprofen) to help with pain and swelling.
-Reduce swelling by compression devices or taping techniques.
-Use ultrasound and laser treatment to reduce pain and inflammation and promote healing.
- Prescribe a full ankle rehabilitation program to strengthen the joint and help prevent future ankle sprains.