Podiatrist Offices Conveniently Located In Kenilworth, Bayonne, Little Ferry & Montclair New Jersey

Innovative Foot & Ankle

Footnotes / Blog

Sunday, July 30th, 2017 Elizabeth Anthony

What Exactly is an Ankle Sprain?

An ankle sprain is the tearing or stretching of one or more ligaments in the ankle.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains often occur when the ankle is twisted or rolled, leading to injury. Common causes include:

  • Tripping off curbs
  • Falling down stairs
  • Injuries during sports activities

Symptoms of an Ankle Sprain

  • Immediate pain: Pain is typically felt right after the injury, with some patients reporting being unable to bear weight on the affected foot.
  • “Pop” sound: Some patients may hear a popping sound at the time of injury.
  • Swelling (edema): Swelling around the ankle is common.
  • Bruising: Bruising may develop as the injury heals.
  • Severity: The intensity of symptoms typically correlates with the extent of the ligament damage.

Diagnosis of Ankle Sprains

A licensed podiatrist at Innovative Foot & Ankle can diagnose an ankle sprain through a clinical exam. The doctor will:

  • Visually examine the ankle for swelling and bruising
  • Palpate the area to locate the most painful region
  • Assess the ankle’s range of motion and stability

Treatment Options for Ankle Sprains

1. Minor Sprains

  • Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (R.I.C.E.): This is often the first step in treating minor sprains to reduce pain and swelling.
  • Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications: These may be used to help with pain relief.

2. Severe Sprains

  • Immobilization: More severe sprains may require splinting or a soft cast to keep the ankle stable during the healing process.
  • Physical therapy: Once the swelling subsides, rehabilitation exercises are essential to restore flexibility, range of motion, and strength.

3. Surgery

  • In cases where conservative treatment does not work, or if the ligament is severely damaged, surgery may be necessary to repair the torn ligaments.

Conclusion

If you’ve suffered an ankle sprain, it’s crucial to seek care to ensure proper healing and avoid future injury. The doctors at Innovative Foot & Ankle are highly trained in diagnosing and treating all types of foot and ankle injuries. With offices located in Kenilworth, Bayonne, Little Ferry, and Montclair, we have a location near you.

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