Ankle sprains are among the most common injury when it comes to playing outdoors or participating in sports.
Ankle sprains can happen by simply taking a step wrong and twisting your foot in a way that it’s not meant to twist. They can also occur when playing sports. Regardless of how you sprained your ankle, knowing how to treat it can help you to take steps to prevent your sprain from getting worse.
With ankle sprains, the sprain itself is an injury to the ligaments in your ankle. While ligaments are flexible –twisting or stretching them too far, can cause harm. Most ankle sprains are not severe –however in some cases, it is possible to sprain your ankle and tear a ligament.
Symptoms
Diagnosing a sprained ankle is fairly easy –and most people know when they have one. However, here are a few symptoms to be aware of when it comes to sprained ankles:
- Ankle pain
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Tenderness
If you are unable to walk, or are in intense pain when walking you should seek medical attention. Low grade ankle sprains generally will cause some pain while walking or give you a limp while it heals –but it is possible to walk without intense pain.
Treatment
Sprained ankles that are only minor or moderate can generally heal on their own. Here are a few things you can do to help speed up the healing process.
- Rest – Avoid putting your weight on your ankle. Depending on the pain level, crutches may be required.
- Ice – Putting ice on your ankle can help reduce the amount of swelling that occurs. It can also help relieve some of the pain.
- Elevation – Elevating your ankle on a pillow can help while you are sitting or lying down.
- Pain Medication – Over the counter pain medication or anti-inflammatory pills can help reduce the swelling and pain or discomfort you may be experiencing.
If the pain persists, or you cannot bear any weight on your ankle, it’s important to seek medical attention.
For foot and ankle treatment in Houston, Texas contact Dr. Lamarra of Shepherd Square Podiatry today.