Ankle Sprains! Ouch!

Jumping off a raised surface, stepping in a hole, jumping to get that ball in the basket for the final point or simply walking over rough ground can result in a sprained ankle!  Pain is usually pronounced, followed by excessive swelling or edema.  If a blood vessel is torn, bleeding occurs and the foot will be “black & blue.”

The most common sprains occur when the foot turns inward, straining the ligaments around the outer ankle.  Ligaments are tough tissue that connects bone to bone providing stability to a joint.  They heal very slowly, over weeks and sometimes months.  Early physical therapy treatments can decrease the pain and edema as well as improve the range of motion.  

Furthermore, when pain decreases, a progressive resistive exercise program will provide the needed stability to prevent further injury.  At home, the first attack after a sprain is to apply cold packs 15-20 minutes several times a day.  Gentle movement is encouraged.  If weight bearing is too painful, a few days on crutches may be helpful.  Keeping the ankle elevated reduces the edema.  Occasionally a splint or brace is needed while the ankle is unstable.

Prevent ankle sprains to avoid the pain and inconvenience!  If you are going hiking, wear high-top shoes or hiking boots.  Sports often require specific footwear, such as high-top sneakers for basketball.  Also, don’t forget to fill in those uneven areas and be aware of the uneven terrain!

back to top