Ankle Sprain in Levittown, NY
The ankle is a very flexible joint, but there’s a chance you may find that it has rolled or twisted in an awkward way, which leads to an ankle sprain. When you’re dealing with a sprained ankle, the ligaments have been forced beyond their range of motion and this makes it painful to apply pressure by walking or continuing to participate in activities. It’s really important that you get the necessary treatment and healing time for your sprained ankle, so it doesn’t cause any further issues in the future and you’re able to get back to your daily life as soon as possible.
Symptoms and Causes of a Sprained Ankle
Often, you’ll be able to tell if you’re dealing with a sprained ankle before you even go to your podiatrist. A sprained ankle can be different levels of severity, but common symptoms include:
- Pain, especially when weight is applied to the foot
- Tenderness
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Restriction in motion
- Popping sensation at the time of injury
If you notice any of these symptoms, you need to see your podiatrist for an examination as soon as possible.
An ankle sprain is caused by some sort of trauma that causes your ankle to move out of its normal position. This could be a fall, landing awkwardly after jumping, walking on an uneven surface, or having someone fall on your foot.
Treating Your Sprained Ankle
Often, an ankle sprain is treated with self-care. You should be sure to rest, apply ice, compress the ankle to reduce swelling, and elevate it. You may also take over-the-counter pain relievers and will need crutches to move around until the pain subsides.
Preventing a Sprained Ankle
To prevent a sprained ankle, you should be sure to warm up before exercising and exercise caution when on an uneven surface. You should also wear shoes that fit well and are proper for the activity that you’re participating in. Continue to stretch each day and do balance exercises.