After you have one ankle sprain, you are at increased risk for repeated injuries and chronic instability, which can interfere with your active lifestyle. At Cascade Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Center, P.C. in The Dalles and Hood River, Oregon, board-certified orthopedic surgeon Gregory Stanley, MD, MBA, FAAOS, and the team offer effective diagnoses and treatments for ankle sprains and chronic ankle instability. To learn how you can recover quickly from an ankle sprain and return to sports and activities, call the nearest office or book an appointment online today.
What is an ankle sprain?
A sprained ankle is one of the most common podiatric sports injuries. A sprain occurs when the ligaments in a joint stretch beyond their means and tear.
Ankle sprains range in severity from mild, which involves slight stretching and microscopic tears, to severe, which leaves you with a completely torn ligament.
Without proper treatment, an ankle sprain may not heal correctly. This can leave the ankle vulnerable to repeated sprains and chronic instability.
How do ankle sprains occur?
Ankle sprains happen to people of all ages and activity levels. However, they’re especially common in athletes and active people. You may sprain your ankle anytime you roll or twist your foot while bearing weight on it.
Running or walking on uneven surfaces, like a forest trail, or participating in sports that require cutting actions, like soccer, increases your risk of ankle sprains.
How do I know if I have an ankle sprain?
Ankle sprains cause sudden, intense pain at the time of injury. You may also experience swelling, bruising, and tenderness to the touch. Severe sprains may cause ankle instability that makes it difficult to walk.
Signs and symptoms of an ankle sprain are similar to those of other acute injuries, such as fractures. The best thing to do if you think you have a sprained ankle is to see the experts at Cascade Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Center, P.C. for an accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment.
What are the treatment options for ankle sprains?
Most ankle sprains resolve with nonsurgical treatments, like rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Your provider at Cascade Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Center, P.C. may immobilize your ankle in a cast-boot and recommend you use crutches to keep weight off the injured foot. Surgery may be required for persistent or severe ankle sprains.
Whether your treatment is surgical or nonsurgical, physical therapy is an important part of your recovery from an ankle sprain.
For the most advanced treatment of ankle sprains, call Cascade Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Center, P.C., or book an appointment online today.
