Twisting your ankle is among the most common foot injuries. It can happen when you are engaging in normal, everyday activities such as crossing the street and stepping clumsily on the curb, and it often happens to individuals who participate in sporting activities involving running, jumping, and pivoting, such as tennis, soccer, and basketball. Folks who have had previous injuries to the ankle may be more susceptible to additional sprains, but this is usually due to improper and inadequate treatment of the initial injury. One of the complications of repeatedly spraining your ankle and not seeking proper treatment is that the joint can become chronically unstable, sometimes requiring surgery to properly repair.
It is a good idea to see your foot doctor if you have a severe ankle sprain to see if imaging scans are needed for proper evaluation of the bones and soft tissues in order to rule out any broken bones, tendon, or ligament damage. X-rays or CT scans are superb for showing any bone issues, and an MRI may be required to show any damage to the soft tissue.
Treatment for ankle sprains:
- RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation)
- Pain relief—The use of over the counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen
- Weight elimination—Crutches or a wheelchair may be needed to allow healing
- Immobilization—A walking boot or cast to limit movement of the ankle joint
- Physical therapy exercises—To restore strength, flexibility, stability, and range of motion
Preventing an ankle injury from happening in the first place involves some fairly common sense solutions that include warming up before exercise, wearing shoes that are correct for the activity, and improving and maintaining strength, flexibility, and balance.
If you are suffering from the pain of an ankle sprain, see your foot care professional right away to ensure complete treatment is performed. Dr. Scott Nelson of Foot and Ankle Medical Clinic in Garland, TX, is a board-certified and highly experienced podiatrist who has helped people suffering from all types of foot and ankle injuries and deformities. From bunions, to diabetic foot problems, sports injuries and fungal nails, you can trust that Dr. Nelson and his staff are wholeheartedly devoted to your foot health. Please contact our office with any questions you may have or to schedule an appointment by calling 972-414-9800.