STILL HAVING TROUBLE WITH AN OLD ANKLE LIGAMENT SPRAIN

I sprained the ligaments on the outside of my ankle four months ago, and I’m still experiencing pain, stiffness, and swelling whenever I use the ankle. Could there be another issue that’s preventing my recovery?

While minor ankle sprains typically heal within two to four weeks, more severe sprains involving significant ligament damage may take longer to heal. Persistent symptoms well beyond this timeframe could indicate an additional problem, such as a talar dome fracture.

The talar dome consists of two small bones on the top of the talus, or ankle bone. During a sprain, when the ankle twists inward, the lower leg bones can press against the talar dome.

In about 6 percent of ankle sprains, this pressure can chip the talar dome. If the chip becomes loose, it may interfere with joint movement, potentially causing the joint to “lock up.” Such fractures are often missed during routine examinations for ankle sprains. If you continue to experience pain, stiffness, and swelling despite normal activities, your doctor might suspect a talar dome issue.

Since these fractures don’t always appear clearly on X-rays, a CAT scan or bone scan might be necessary for a more accurate diagnosis. If a bone scan indicates a problem, an MRI is often recommended to provide detailed information and help determine the most appropriate treatment. Be sure to inform your doctor about your ongoing symptoms.