An ankle sprain can occur when you least expect it, such as from that missed step at the curb while looking at your phone. Or perhaps you landed wrong after making an awesome football grab. Whatever the cause, the pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking experienced immediately afterward are sure signs that you need to take a break immediately and get an evaluation.
Trying to treat an ankle injury on your own can be a risky practice since the severity of the injury can vary considerably. Prompt evaluation and treatment are essential to avoid additional complications.
Reasons to seek your podiatrist’s assistance for ankle injuries and sprains include:
Permanent ankle instability—An ankle injury that is incorrectly treated and rehabilitated will progress to a loosening of ligaments and other components that hold the ankle together, increasing the chances that a future injury will occur.
Concurrent bone fracture—When you made that amazing football catch and came down hard on your ankle, you need to make sure you didn’t break anything. A hairline or other type of fracture can occur and the only way to confirm or rule this out is with a complete exam from your foot care professional.
Inadequate healing—Unless a comprehensive rehabilitation program is followed to slowly strengthen the foot and ankle and increase joint flexibility, a re-injury is more likely to occur.
An ankle sprain or strain can be initially treated using the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) to take the pressure off the injured foot and decrease swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as Advil can be taken for pain. In the more complicated cases, your foot doctor may need to perform a surgical procedure to repair the damage.
If you have a severely strained or sprained ankle, consult with our board-certified podiatrists at Foot and Ankle Center of Fort Lee, LLC. The center offers convenient locations in Fort Lee NJ, Ringwood NJ, Flushing Queens NY, Woodhaven NY, Brooklyn NY, and Forest Hills NY. Contact us at (201) 363-9844and schedule an appointment today!
