Ankle Sprains in Gymnastics

Each year, more than 86,000 gymnastics-related injuries are treated in hospitals, doctors' offices and hospital emergency rooms. Gymnasts run, jump and tumble on soft surfaces and compete on narrow equipment, which makes them prone to ankle sprains. Considered a ligament injury, 75 percent of sprains are classified as lateral ankle sprains.

Here are a few things gymnasts should consider:

There are three grades of ankle sprains. A grade one means that the ligament is not completely torn it’s just injured but stable. Grade two and three lateral ankle sprain involve a complete tear of one or two ligaments.

The problem with a lateral ankle sprain in sports is typically the pain and instability.  Long term, most ankle sprains respond well to resting, icing, and compression to get the swelling down and a period of immobilization. If the ankle is stable, taping it can help support it during a competition – this form of treatment is commonly used during major competitions like the Olympics.

For those athletes with a more severe ligament tear, taping the ankle typically will not provide the kind of support needed to compete at a more advanced level. Definitive treatment will require some form of support, bracing or immobilization. If a gymnast with a lateral ankle sprain decides to compete they may be forced to make small adjustments to their routine due to pain or fear of re-injury. Ultimately this will significantly affect their performance.

If a gymnast is faced with a severe ankle injury, rest and medical attention is always the best course of action.

David A. Porter, MD, PhD, FACSM

Methodist Sports Medicine Center

Clarian Human Motion, Indianapolis