Do you need an XRAY after an Ankle Sprain?
Ankle sprains are one of the most common lower body injuries we see in clinic, especially in the active sporting population.
The difficult question though, is whether you will need an XRAY or not, especially after a severe ankle sprain. Some ‘severe’ ankle sprains can actually be a fracture (broken bone).
Luckily, most ankle sprains injuries will not require an XRAY, but it’s good to know when you should get yourself to the Emergency Department!
Basic Foot and Ankle Anatomy
Just before we get into the XRAY criteria, let’s go over some basic anatomy of the foot and ankle. We’ll keep everything simple and easy to understand here!
In the image below, we’ve labelled major landmarks that will cover the vast majority of areas where fractures are likely to occur.
1: Tibia (inner shin bone)
2: Medial Malleolus (visible bony landmark on the inside of the ankle)
3: Tarsal/1st Metatarsal (inner border of your foot)
4: Fibula (outer shin bone)
5: Lateral Malleolus (visible bony landmark on outside of ankle)
6: 5th Metatarsal (other border of your foot)
Deciding if you will need an XRAY
Clinicians such as Physiotherapists, Doctors and Pitchside First Aid crew will use a series of tests called the ‘Ottawa Ankle Rules’ to help determine if you will need an XRAY following an ankle sprain.
Instructions
Firmly press over the bony landmarks Marked 1-6 as described on the image above! You will essentially be pressing over both the bony ankle landmarks, and along the bones 6cm above and below it on each side.
Stand up, and see if you’re able to take 4 steps.
Results - To get XRAY or not
If ANY of the bony landmarks marked 1-6 are painful - PLEASE GET AN XRAY
If NONE of the bony landmarks are painful, BUT you are UNABLE to take 4 steps - PLEASE GET AN XRAY
If NONE of the bony landmarks are painful, AND you can take >4 steps - You most likely will NOT need an XRAY.
Getting appropriate treatment for your injury
Making the clinical decision as to whether or not you need an XRAY can have a big impact on the outcome of your recovery.
Make sure you get your ankle injury assessed by an experienced medical professional to determine if you will need further investigations, to make sure you get timely treatment.
Physiotherapy treatment for ankle sprains
At Physiologic, our Physiotherapists are experienced at performing thorough and decisive assessments to decide if you need further investigations for your injuries. This is the first step to creating a bespoke treatment plan specific for your needs.
Whether or not you do uncover a fracture from your injury, our team at Physiologic are well placed to treat and rehabilitate you back to full function, as soon as possible.
Given the recurrent nature of ankle sprains, we place emphasis on the small details that often go missed in treatment and rehabilitation programs, to create a strong ankle that is resilient to further injuries.
Contact us here for an initial consultation to start your recovery!
Ankle Sprain Physiotherapy Rehabilitation
About the Author
Ryan Tan is our Clinical Director and Physiotherapist here at Physiologic Hong Kong. He’s had over 10 years of experience as a sports and musculoskeletal Physiotherapist, having looked after elite athletes such as the NZ Rugby 7’s team and more recently, some of Hong Kong’s top Trail Runners. He attributes his client’s successes to their commitment in being diligent with his individual rehabilitation programs. Excellent relationships with some of Hong Kong’s top Orthopaedic Surgeons allows Ryan to provide a truly multidisciplinary team approach to his clients health care.
Contact us to speak with Ryan if you are looking for an experienced Physiotherapist to guide you back to your competitive best!
