[Hinews] With summer’s surge in outdoor sports and activities, injuries become more common, and ankle sprains lead the pack. Medically termed lateral ankle sprains, these injuries stem from missteps, abrupt changes in direction, external impacts, or simple twists, resulting in stretched or torn ligaments.

South Korea’s Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service reports a 2.44% rise in hospital visits for ankle sprains from 2022 to 2024, with roughly 200,000 patients seeking treatment monthly. Experts caution that even minor sprains, if not addressed promptly, can lead to chronic pain or repeated injuries.

Ankle sprains, a common summer sports injury, require early treatment and consistent preventive care. (Image courtesy of ClipArtKorea)
Ankle sprains, a common summer sports injury, require early treatment and consistent preventive care. (Image courtesy of ClipArtKorea)


Classifying Sprains: Mild to Severe

Ankle sprains are graded into three levels based on ligament damage severity. Grade 1 sprains involve slight ligament stretching, causing mild pain with minimal functional loss. Grade 2 sprains feature partial ligament tears, accompanied by swelling and difficulty walking. Grade 3 sprains, the most severe, involve complete ligament rupture, leading to intense pain, significant swelling, skin discoloration, and an inability to bear weight.
Mild cases often respond to conservative measures like the RICE protocol—Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation—which reduces inflammation and pain. Severe sprains, however, may require 4–6 weeks of treatment, and persistent joint instability could necessitate surgical intervention.

Dr. Woo-Young Jang, Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Korea University Anam Hospital
Dr. Woo-Young Jang, Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Korea University Anam Hospital


Prevention First: Strengthen and Stretch

Given their high recurrence rate, preventing ankle sprains is paramount. Maintaining balanced strength and flexibility in ankle-supporting muscles, coupled with thorough pre-activity stretching, is fundamental. Wearing activity-appropriate, supportive footwear is also critical.

Dr. Woo-Young Jang, an orthopedic surgeon at Korea University Anam Hospital, underscores the risks: “Repeated ankle sprains can undermine joint stability and cause chronic pain. Rehabilitating both ankles, not just the injured one, is highly effective for preventing recurrence and restoring function.” He adds, “Even minor injuries should not be overlooked—early treatment is the wisest course.”

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