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Not All Ankle Sprains Are Alike

Tuesday, 11 January 2022 00:00

You don’t have to be an athlete to sprain your ankle. This common injury can occur whenever the ligaments—which bind and support your ankle and connect bones—get overly stretched or even torn. If you sprain your ankle you may feel pain, notice swelling, and it may be difficult for you to walk. Most ankle sprains are lateral, which means they affect the outside of your ankle. Ankle sprains are graded according to the severity of the sprain as well as the damage caused. Grade 1 sprains involve mild stretching of the ligaments with no tearing. Typically, this type of sprain will produce minimal pain, tenderness and swelling with no joint instability or bruising. There is usually no difficulty walking either. Partial tears, moderate pain/swelling/tenderness and bruising are indicative of a Grade 2 sprain. There may also be difficulty walking and some ankle instability. Grade 3 sprains result in ruptures or tears of the ligament. They can produce severe symptoms of pain, bruising and tenderness. The ankle will be unable to bear weight, and there may be a great deal of instability and dysfunction. If you’ve suffered an ankle sprain and the symptoms do not improve soon after being injured, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist right away. You will receive a full examination and assessment, with an appropriate treatment plan depending on your grade of ankle sprain and other factors.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Associates, PLLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Mild to moderate bruising
  • Limited mobility
  • Swelling
  • Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lake Worth and Aledo/Willow Park, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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