Sprained Ankle: Prevention And Treatment

Anyone who has experienced an ankle sprain would agree that it is a painful and uncomfortable injury to experience. Most people have twisted their ankle before, however, if your ankle looks swollen and is difficult to walk on, it may be a sprain.

An ankle sprain occurs when you roll or twist your ankle in an unnatural way. When this happens, it can stretch or tear the ligaments that help hold your ankle joint together and in place.

Symptoms you may feel if you have sprained your ankle include:

• Pain when applying pressure to the affected foot
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Limited range of motion
• Instability in the ankle
• Popping sensation or sound when the injury occurs

An ankle sprain is a very common injury. Some causes of ankle sprains include:

• A harsh fall that causes your ankle to twist in an unnatural way
• Participation in sports that require jumping, running, or fast pace direction changes. (Soccer, basketball, tennis, football, etc.)
• Walking, running, or exercising on an uneven surface
• Improper shoes that do not fit properly or do not support your feet properly
• Prior ankle injury

All of these are factors that may trigger an ankle sprain to occur. Depending on the cause, the severity of the ankle sprain may range from mild to severe. With a mild ankle sprain, the ankle may appear swollen and stiff. With a severe ankle sprain, you may feel unstable and unable to apply your weight on the affected foot.

There are some things you can do to prevent an ankle sprain from occurring.

Some tips include:

• Stretching and warming up before you exercise or participate in sports
• Be cautious of uneven surfaces when walking or running
• Use an ankle support brace on a weak ankle
• Working on flexibility and strengthening exercises for the muscles around your ankles

The most effective self-care treatment for an acute ankle sprain is the R.I.C.E. method.

• Rest
• Ice
• Compression
• Elevation

However, if your pain is severe you should seek medical assistance. The physical therapists and chiropractors at Block Chiropractic Sports & Wellness are well versed in the treatment of a wide variety of sports injuries including ankle sprains.

Depending on the condition of your ankle, your treatment plan will involve a wide variety of tactics including proper motioning for the stage of your injury as well as strengthening exercises for the surrounding muscles of the ankle joint. By strengthening this area, your ankle will get the support necessary to properly heal, reducing downtime. Contact us today!