What causes a sprained ankle?
An ankle sprain occurs because your ligaments, which connect bones to bones, are overstretched. This painful injury can lead to severe ankle instability, especially if you have a torn ligament. You can suffer from a sprained ankle due to:
- Running or walking on a hilly or uneven surface
- Tripping and falling or missing a step on a flight of stairs
- Playing jumping or cutting-action sports, like basketball or tennis
- Someone landing on your foot during a sporting event, which causes you to twist it
If you previously had an ankle sprain and never had it properly treated, or if it never healed correctly, your risk of future ankle sprains is greater.
When should I see a doctor for a sprained ankle?
Because a sprained ankle can lead to ongoing issues with ankle instability and chronic pain, the podiatry team at Cardio Metabolic Institute encourages you to schedule an evaluation as soon as your injury occurs. You should have your sprained ankle evaluated if you experience:
- Swelling or tenderness
- Bruising or redness
- Inability to bear weight on your foot or ankle
If your ankle is severely sprained, you may have difficulty flexing or pointing your foot, too. Before your symptoms worsen, see how the specialists at Cardio Metabolic Institute can help.
Which sprained ankle treatment do I need?
Sprained ankle treatments begin with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), or possibly immobilization with a walking boot or cast.
Your podiatrist at Cardio Metabolic Institute might also prescribe pain medications or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). As pain and tenderness start to subside, you may benefit from any of the following treatments:
- Regenerative medicine, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP)
- Range of motion exercises
- Strengthening exercises
- Balance training
- Custom orthotics
The team of foot and ankle surgeons can perform minimally invasive and arthroscopic surgery if you have a ligament tear or severe ankle instability that needs surgical correction.
Cardio Metabolic Institute is home to state-of-the-art physical therapy clinics, so you can get all of your treatment service needs met under one roof.
Book your sprained ankle evaluation at Cardio Metabolic Institute directly through the website. You can also call any clinic location to speak with a team member.
