March 19, 2024 The Brace Direct Team

Children's Ankle Injuries: Causes, Treatment, and Recovery

Ankle injuries are common in active children, and can be distressing for both the child and their parents. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for ankle injuries is key to ensuring a quick and complete recovery. This guide provides information on managing ankle injuries in children, from immediate care to long-term prevention, and highlights supportive products from Brace Direct.

Quick Guide: Children's Ankle Injuries

Jump to sections below to learn about causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and bracing options for children's ankle injuries.

Causes Symptoms Diagnosis Treatment Braces & Supports Prevention Talk to an Expert

Common Causes of Ankle Injuries in Children

Falls: Sudden impacts during play or sports.
Twisting injuries: Awkward movements that force the ankle beyond its normal range of motion.
Sports: Activities involving running, jumping, and quick changes in direction (soccer, basketball, gymnastics).
Improper footwear: Shoes that don't provide adequate support.
Uneven surfaces: Playing on uneven ground increases the risk of sprains.
Overuse: Repetitive activities without adequate rest.

Symptoms of Ankle Injuries in Children

It's important to recognize the signs of an ankle injury in children, as they may not always be able to articulate their pain clearly. Look out for:

Pain: Especially when bearing weight on the affected ankle.
Swelling: Around the ankle joint.
Bruising: Discoloration around the injury.
Tenderness: Pain when the ankle is touched.
Limited range of motion: Difficulty moving the ankle or foot.
Limping: An altered gait to avoid putting weight on the ankle.
Instability: A feeling of the ankle "giving way."

Pro Tip: If your child is unable to bear weight on their ankle, or if there is significant swelling or deformity, seek medical attention immediately.

Diagnosing Ankle Injuries in Children

Diagnosing ankle injuries in children typically involves:

Physical Examination: The doctor will assess swelling, bruising, tenderness, range of motion, and stability of the ankle. They will ask about how the injury occurred.
Medical History: The doctor will ask about your child's symptoms, activity levels, and any previous ankle injuries.
Imaging Tests:
- X-rays: X-rays are essential to rule out fractures (broken bones), especially in children, where growth plate injuries are a concern.
- MRI or CT Scan (Less Common): These imaging tests are usually only needed if there is suspicion of a more complex injury, such as ligament damage, cartilage damage, or a subtle fracture that doesn't show up on an X-ray.

For more details, visit the Cleveland Clinic’s foot drop guide.

Treatment Options for Children's Ankle Injuries

Treatment for a child's ankle injury depends on the severity and type of injury. Here are some common approaches:

R.I.C.E. Therapy

Rest: Avoid activities that put weight on the ankle.
Ice: Apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, to reduce swelling.
Compression: Use an elastic bandage to help control swelling.
Elevation: Keep the ankle raised above the heart to minimize swelling.

Medication

Over-the-counter pain relievers, as recommended by a pediatrician:

Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

Bracing & Immobilization

Depending on the severity of the injury:

Ankle braces: Provide support and stability for sprains and strains.
Walking boots: May be needed for more severe sprains or fractures to immobilize the ankle.

Physical Therapy

Once the initial pain and swelling have subsided:

Exercises to restore range of motion, strength, and flexibility.
Helps prevent future injuries and re-injury.

Prevention Tips

To help prevent future ankle injuries in children, consider the following:

Proper Footwear: Ensure your child wears appropriate, supportive footwear for different activities. Shoes should fit well and provide good ankle support.
Warm-up and Stretching: Encourage proper warm-up and stretching exercises before sports and physical activities. This helps prepare the muscles and ligaments for activity.
Proper Technique: Teach proper techniques in sports and activities. Incorrect form can increase the risk of injury.
Surface Awareness: Encourage children to be mindful of uneven surfaces while playing or running.
Gradual Increase in Activity: Avoid sudden increases in activity level. Gradually increase intensity and duration to allow the body to adapt.
Listen to Their Body: Teach children to listen to their bodies and rest when they feel pain. "Playing through the pain" can often worsen an injury.
Strength and Conditioning: Regular exercise that strengthens the muscles around the ankle can improve stability and reduce the risk of injury.

Need More Guidance?

If your child has suffered an ankle injury, or if you have questions about prevention or treatment, Brace Direct is here to help. We offer a wide range of pediatric braces and supports, and our experts can provide personalized recommendations.

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