Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains are among the most common injuries, but that doesn’t mean you should take them lightly. Seeking early treatment from  Joseph Hall, DPM (Foot and Ankle Specialist) at Mill Creek Foot and Ankle Clinic in Mill Creek, Washington is essential to be sure your sprain doesn’t turn into chronic ankle instability, a problem affecting up to 70% of all people with ankle sprains. Don’t wait to get help for a sprain. Call the office in Mill Creek, Washington, or use the online booking feature to request an appointment today.

What is an ankle sprain?

A sprain occurs when you overstretch or tear one or more of the ligaments in the ankle joint. The ankle ligaments stabilize the joint and limit side-to-side movement. However, pulling or stretching them is easy if you twist your ankle.

You may turn your ankle when walking on uneven ground, pivoting during sports, landing awkwardly after jumping, or stepping off a curb.

The challenge of a sprained ankle is giving it time to heal fully. If you keep moving and using the ankle, the ligament can’t heal enough to regain its original strength. Then, the damaged ligament weakens, chronic instability develops, and you are at risk of recurrent sprains.

What symptoms does a sprained ankle cause?

You may experience:

• Pain
• Inflammation
• Swelling
• Bruising or discoloration

The severity of your symptoms determines if you can use the ankle and put weight on it. However, many people continue to hobble around, using the ankle as much as possible, interfering with healing.

How is a sprained ankle diagnosed?

Dr. Hall will take a thorough history and learn about what caused your ankle sprain, the symptoms you are experiencing, and if you sprained your ankle in the past.

He may confirm a sprain during a physical exam by gently pressing on the ankle and testing the range of motion and joint stability. He may also take in-office digital X-rays.

Ankle sprains cause the same symptoms as a fracture, making an X-ray crucial to rule out a broken bone.

What treatment might I need for a sprained ankle?

Dr. Hall at Mill Creek Foot & Ankle Clinic will focus on easing your pain, reducing swelling, and immobilizing the ankle so the ligament can heal. Your treatment may include any of the following:

• Rest, ice, compression bandages, and elevating your foot (RICE)
• Walking boot or brace (to immobilize and stabilize the ankle)
• Crutches or a scooter (to keep weight off the ankle)
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Physical therapy or an at-home exercise regiment
• Activity modification
• Surgery for recurrent ankle sprains and chronic instability

If the ligament tears, you may need surgery to reconstruct the ligament. Though surgery is the last resort, it’s often the best way to restore optimal strength to a ruptured ligament and give you the ability to return to athletics.

Call Mill Creek Foot & Ankle Clinic or book an appointment online today to get treatment for a sprained ankle.