Ankle dislocation is a common injury that can happen to anyone. The ankle may feel swollen and painful, making it difficult to walk or stand. Dealing with it can be a difficult and painful experience. However, it is essential to remember that this is a common injury and that many resources are available to help one recover. This post will have everything you need to know about ankle dislocation, from the symptoms to the treatment options.

What is ankle dislocation?
Ankle dislocation occurs when the ankle joint is displaced from its normal position or forced out of alignment.

This can happen when someone falls or jumps, and it’s one of the most common injuries among athletes. This can also occur as an outcome of an accident or other trauma to the ankle.

Symptoms of an ankle dislocation
Symptoms of an ankle dislocation include severe pain, deformity at the joint, swelling, and bruising around the ankle. This can result from the inability to bear weight on the affected leg and put your foot back into its original position.

How is an ankle dislocation diagnosed?
There are several different ways to diagnose an ankle dislocation. Still, the most common methods are X-ray (to see if there is bone damage), CT scan (to see if there is fluid accumulation or swelling around the joint), and MRI (to examine if there is any structural damage).

Complications associated with ankle dislocation
Blood clot
If your ankle dislocates, blood may flow into the space between the ankle and foot (the joint).

Infection
Ankle dislocation can also lead to infection because of the number of bacteria in wounds. Make sure to clean the wound before applying any bandage or adhesive tape.

Stiffness
Ankle dislocation often leads to stiffness because it causes muscle spasms. The best way to reduce stiffness is by icing the injured area every few hours until it heals properly.

Broken bones
Broken bones heal slowly, which increases the risk of further complications, such as re-injury or amputation.

Treatment of ankle dislocation
Treatment for a dislocated ankle typically involves immobilizing the ankle and casting or splinting it until it heals.

In most cases, the doctor will try to reduce the injury without surgery. This is known as a “closed reduction.” The doctor will start the process with a local anesthetic to numb the area. Once you are numb, the doctor will manipulate your bones back into their correct position. You may feel discomfort during this procedure, but it should not be too painful.

After the bones are back in place, the doctor will place a splint or cast to keep them stable while they heal. It is essential to keep the foot elevated during this time to reduce swelling and pain.

Surgery may sometimes be necessary to repair any damage to the ligaments or bones. If open reduction (surgery) is required, doctors will perform a bone graft from another part of the body to help restore stability and alignment.

The good news is that, with proper treatment, most people fully recover from a dislocated ankle. However, following the doctor’s instructions carefully and giving yourself time to heal is essential. If you try to return to activity too soon, you could end up re-injuring your ankle or causing further damage.

Do you need physical therapy for an ankle dislocation?
Physical therapy can be an excellent option to reduce pain and swelling and improve range of motion and strength.

A physical therapist will develop a customized plan of care that may include exercises, manual therapy techniques, and other modalities. They will also help educate you on properly caring for your ankle.