Ankle Sprains

Ankle Sprains Treatments

Ankle Sprains (Ankle Instability) can be serious and should be given immediate attention and care, despite not being as severe as a broken ankle. An ankle sprains can lead to a significant amount of pain, as well as limited mobility. They are often characterized by swelling and discoloration of the skin, which occurs when the ligaments are stretched beyond their limits.

What is Ankle Sprains?

Ankle Sprains are caused by an unnatural twisting or force on the ankle bones of the foot, which may result in excessive stretching or tearing of one or more ligaments on the outside of the ankle. 

The simple act of walking can sometimes cause a sprain, which makes them a very common injury for anyone. They occur when the ankle twists in an awkward way or rolls over itself, causing a pop or snap in the tendons around the ankle. Some people are more at risk than others, including athletes who continually push their bodies to the limits and also people who have previously suffered accidents to the feet, ankles, or lower legs.

The severity of the Sprained Ankle injury depends on if the ligaments are stretched, partially torn, or fully torn. If not properly treated, ankle sprains may develop into long-term problems.

Prompt medical attention is highly recommended. If left untreated, or if treated incorrectly, ankle sprains can heal incorrectly, which can lead to chronic problems. Contact Arizona Foot and Ankle Physicians in Scottsdale for an Ankle Sprains (Ankle Instability) Exam today! 

What are the Ankle Sprains treatments?

1. Common sprained ankle treatment includes resting and elevating the ankle and applying ice to reduce swelling. Compressive bandages also may be used to immobilize and support the injury during healing.

2. Nonsurgical treatment includes R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression, elevation), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), and physical therapy.

3. Surgical treatment – Serious ankle sprains, particularly among competitive athletes, may require surgery to repair and tighten the damaged ligaments.

4. Chronic Ankle Pain Treatments include over the counter or prescription medication, physical therapy to build muscle strength, steroid medications, ankle braces, and immobilization (in the case of fracture).

Osteochondritis is a condition where loose bone or cartilage gets caught between joints or bones, causing pain, stiffness, swelling, and in severe cases, immobility. The loose piece(s) are typically a result of a twisting-type injury of the ankle.

5. Osteochondritis Treatments for mild cases involves immobilization of the foot and ankle. In more severe cases, surgery may be recommended to remove the loose bone or cartilage.

Ankle Sprains Treatments Scottsdale
Ankle Sprains Symptoms

Primary symptoms of an ankle sprains include:

  • Pain
  • Bruising
  • Swelling
  • Stiffness
  • Difficulty walking

Chronic lateral ankle pain occurs most commonly from an improperly healed sprained ankle or other injuries.

Symptoms include all common symtpoms plus:

  • recurring pain on the outside part of the ankle
  • ankle instability
  • tenderness.

It is always important to seek the advice of a health care professional in cases like Dr. Kosak in Scottsdale. Continuous usage of an improperly healed body part can cause a tremendous amount of pain and problems.

How to prevent Ankle Sprains?

To prevent ankle sprains (ankle instability), try to maintain strength, balance, and flexibility in the foot and ankle through exercising, stretching, and wearing well fitted shoes.

If you believe you have an ankle sprain, it is important to consult with our podiatrist right away. Ankle Sprains can turn into severe injuries that may require hospitalization. If the ankle ligaments or muscles are damaged from a tear or rip, the sprain may be severe enough to warrant going to the hospital and possibly having surgery done. Even after surgery the recovery process can be long, often involving rehabilitation sessions with a podiatrist to get your ankle back to full strength and health.

Before your sprained ankle gets any worse and lowers your quality of life, book an exam at Arizona Foot and Ankle Physicians in Scottsdale. You can conveniently schedule online or over the phone

Ankle Instability Treatments Scottsdale