I got injured while playing football. Is there any ligament damage?

Question

Hi doctor,

I was just playing football and got stamped on rather severely. I always get studded, but this one is much worse than the rest. The top side of my foot and a bit to the right has large swelling and pain. Is there any ligament damage? I hope not as it was only the first game of the season. Attempting full range of motion is difficult with pain. I never had the same issue previously, but have torn the ligaments in my other ankle.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I think it might be a grade 3 strain and there is no such tear of ligament. But, it is always good to get confirmation about it. Have an x-ray as soon as possible. You can follow the mentioned points to reduce pain and swelling.

Have a pillow under the affected ankle (two pillows) and keep the leg in the raised position at 45 degrees. Apply the ice pack to reduce swelling and redness for 10 minutes thrice daily.

Avoid any weight-bearing movement for 24 hours, but you can slowly move it at different angles to keep it mobile. Stop doing sports for the next week.

If the swelling reduces within 48 hours and pain is there, then apply an ankle cap or crepe bandage in figure 8 to provide stability to the foot, and then you can attempt weight-bearing movements.