Anterior Talofibular Ligament Sprain

The anterior talofibular ligament, also known as the ATFL, is the most commonly injured ligament when the ankle is sprained on its outside or lateral aspect. An ankle sprain occurs when one or more of your ligaments have been stretched, twisted or torn, usually as a result of excessive force being applied to a joint. Sprains often occur if you change speed or direction suddenly, or fall or land awkwardly.

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Symptoms

Pain in the ankle region
Signs of excessive inflammation, which can include redness, swelling, heat, itching and bruising
Inability to bear weight on the ankle
Stiffness
Loss of strength
Feeling unsteady on the ankle

Common causes

Hypermobility, often known as double jointed. In this condition the joints are looser and so there is increased risk of ankle sprains and ligament injuries
Incorrect footwear
Multi-directional sports such as football, rugby, squash and badminton

What else can look similar

What you can try at home

How we can help

Physical therapies such as ultrasound to decrease pain and to speed up the healing process
Exercise regimes to strengthen the ankle area and to stretch any surrounding tight muscles
Foot orthoses to stabilise the ankles if excessive movement in this area makes ankle sprains more likely

Which appointment to book

If you are suffering from re-occurring ankle sprains or pain in the ankle region, you are recommended to book one of the following appointments:

A biomechanical assessment, for a full assessment of how your feet and legs move
A musculoskeletal (MSK) consultation
Running video gait analysis, if you are predominantly a runner

If you are not sure which appointment is right for you, call us on 02920 644900 or email info@feetinfocus.com and we will help.

Ankle ligament anatomy

The main ankle ligaments damaged when an ankle is sprained are the lateral and medial collateral ligaments. On the medial side of the ankle (the side of the instep) there are four ligaments, collectively known as the deltoid ligament:

The posterior tibiotalar
Tibiocalcaneal
Anterior tibiotalar
Tibionavicular ligament

On the lateral side of the ankle (the side of the little toe) there are three ligaments:

Anterior talofibular ligament
Posterior talofibular ligament
Calcaneofibular ligament

Accreditations

Not sure which appointment you need?

We can point you to the right treatment. Call 02920 644900 or book online and we will take it from there.

First visit? Our New Patients page explains what to expect.