Sprained ankle (Pediatrics - PEDS)

Low urgency
Very common-

It is a lesion in the ligaments of the ankle joint that appears after forcing an unnatural position of the foot. It is a very frequent reason for consultation in emergency departments. There are different classifications according to the severity of the symptoms and the distension of the ligaments.

It is generally caused by a contusion of the ligaments that give stability to the ankle or by a bad posture when stepping on the ground, which causes the ligament to stretch beyond its limit of elasticity.  

Symptoms include intense pain, swelling and appearance of hematoma in the joint.

Diagnosis is clinical, by interrogation of the episode and examination of the ankle. Radiography is usually required.

It is treated with cold, compression with elastic bandage, immobilization and elevation of the limb. Subsequently, rehabilitation is performed.

Bibliographic references
  1. Karen L Maughan. Ankle sprain. UpToDate, Enero 2016.
  2. Sman AD. Diagnostic accuracy of clinical tests for diagnosis of ankle syndesmosis injury: a systematic review. Br J Sports Med 2013; 47:620.
  3. Boruta PM. Acute lateral ankle ligament injuries: a literature review. Foot Ankle 1990; 11:107.
  4. Williams GN.Syndesmotic ankle sprains in athletes. Am J Sports Med 2007; 35:1197.
  5. McKay GD. Ankle injuries in basketball: injury rate and risk factors. Br J Sports Med 2001; 35:103.
Author
Dr. Maria Trabazo
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Ankle pain


    Ankle swelling


    Pain in the outer area of the foot, near the little toe, in the fifth metatarsal region


    Pain in the inner upper region of the foot, around the navicular bone


    Ankle bruise

Symptoms to watch out for

Pain that does not subside with analgesics.
Fever (temperature higher than 100.4 ºF)

Self-care

Take over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatories.
Apply local cold to the injured area 3 times a day to reduce inflammation.
Relative rest, rest until symptoms subside.
Avoid sudden movements.