What to Do if Your Child Rolls Their Ankle

If your child experiences chronic ankle instability or frequently rolls their ankle, it's typically due to the repetitive "giving out" sensation on the outer side of the ankle. This occurs when the same ankle is sprained multiple times without adequate time to heal properly.

About 20% of ankle sprains progress to chronic ankle instability. With each sprain, the ligaments and tendons in the foot and ankle become weaker and more prone to stretching. While this injury can happen in any sport, it's especially common in activities involving jumping, running, and sudden directional changes, such as volleyball, soccer, basketball, and football. Other contributing factors may include uneven playing surfaces and improperly fitted footwear.

How Are Ankle Sprains Treated?

When an ankle sprain occurs, your child may experience a "popping" sensation, immediate pain, and swelling along the outer ankle. Employing the P.R.I.C.E. method (Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) and administering over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or other NSAIDs can help reduce swelling and discomfort.

Repeated ankle sprains may prolong swelling and result in bruising. Once the swelling subsides, it's crucial for your child to ease back into sports and activities gradually to prevent future injuries. Neglecting proper treatment for ankle sprains can affect balance, running ability, and other sport-specific skills.

Preventing Rolled Ankles

Ankle injuries take a huge toll on athletes, both in the short term and over time. Learning how to prevent a sprained ankle or a recurring sprain can keep you in the game.

• Proper support: Ankle braces and ankle taping can also help mitigate the risk of injury and provide additional support for individuals with a history of multiple ankle sprains.
• Warm up and cool down: stretching before and after activities can also help keep their muscles flexible and reduce the risk of injury.
• Strengthening and balance exercises: incorporating ankle exercises such as ankle pumps, toe raises, and ankle band exercises can help strengthen the muscles and improve balance.

It's essential for your child to prioritize rest and allow their body sufficient time to heal after an injury. If swelling, bruising, or pain persists or if walking becomes too uncomfortable, seeking assistance from sports medicine professionals is advisable.

Nationwide Children’s Sports Medicine can help with any concerns regarding chronic ankle pain, instability, and how to keep your children active and healthy. If you would like to call or schedule an appointment, you can reach us at (614) 715-5126 or request an appointment with us on our website.