What is the mechanism of an ankle sprain?

An ankle sprain commonly occurs due to a combination of excessive inversion and plantar flexion. This mechanism typically involves the foot rolling inward (inversion) while the ankle is pointed downwards (plantar flexion), often during activities like running, jumping, or landing from a height. The ligaments on the outside of the ankle, primarily the anterior talofibular ligament, are stretched or torn in this scenario, leading to the sprain.

Other mechanisms, such as direct impact to the ankle, sudden rotation of the foot, or overextension of the toes, can lead to different types of injuries but are not the typical cause of an ankle sprain. Direct impact might result in fractures or contusions, while sudden foot rotation could lead to other joint injuries. Overextension of the toes typically relates to conditions like turf toe and does not directly cause an ankle sprain. Understanding the mechanics of ankle sprains is crucial for prevention and effective treatment in sports medicine.