subject: What To Know About Ankle Sprains [print this page] Whether it happens during a part of your everyday life or during an athletic event, an ankle sprain is known to happen at almost any time. An awkward step or an uneven surface can often be the cause of a sprained ankle. It is important for you to take precautions in order to protect your ankles from sudden movements and twists that can cause a sprain.
In America, about 850,000 ankle sprains occur each year, making it the most common injury in the United States. With the proper treatment and prevention, you should be able to protect your ankles from unexpected rolling motions.
How Did You Sprain Your Ankle?
An ankle sprain is often the result of a fall, sudden twist or forcing of the ankle joint out of its natural position. Ankle sprains are also common during sporting events.
Your ankle sprain may often be the result of an inward-roll injury. This can occur when your foot is forced to invert, putting abnormal pressure on the outside of your foot, which is not used to that level of stress. The pressure can stretch or tear one of the lateral ligaments in the joint, which can result in a sprained ankle.
Symptoms Of A Sprained Ankle
Depending on how severe your ankle sprain is, there are different symptoms and levels of pain that you may experience. Here are a few common symptoms associated with ankle sprains:
*Bruising
*Stiffness in the joint
*Pain or soreness
*Difficulty walking
All ankle sprains will produce some level of pain and the joint will become swollen and tender. If you experience a mild sprain, you may have a slight loss of function at the joint but in some cases your ability to walk will remain intact.
With a more serious sprain, it will be difficult for you to put any weight on your injured ankle and there will be swelling and bruising. If you have sprained your ankle in the past, you will have a higher risk of future injuries because the joint will be weaker.
Treatment And Prevention
Treatment for your sprained ankle begins with self-care. The RICE method can be successful for treating a sprained ankle:
*Rest
*Ice
*Compression
*Elevation
When your podiatrist feels that you are ready to begin exercising and participating in sports, you can help prevent further sprains by wearing a brace on your ankle for the first few months back on your ankle. Special wraps are also available to help your ankle.
If your symptoms still continue after at-home care or you are experiencing severe symptoms, you should visit your Oakbrook podiatrist. He or she has a variety of techniques that can help your ankle become healthy again, including minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery.
To learn more about ankle sprains or to schedule an appointment, contact your dentist in Dupage County today.
