What are the symptoms of a sprained ankle?
The severity of a sprain depends on what part of your ankle you’ve hurt and how you injured yourself. Sometimes an ankle sprain is excruciating to touch but has no visible marks; other times, the ankle balloons with swelling with only mild discomfort.
Symptoms of a sprained ankles include:
- Continuous pain or pain when you put weight on it
- Feels unstable to stand or walk on
- Visible bruising
- Swelling
- Sore to touch
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, make an appointment at Albuquerque Associated Podiatrists. They’ll diagnose the problem and provide treatment.
When are you more at risk of an ankle sprain?
Some people are more prone to sprained ankles than others. Here are some things that can cause an ankle sprain.
Previous ankle injury
Any previous ankle injury leaves the joint weaker and more likely to sprain.
Improper shoes
The wrong shoes can’t support your ankle. This includes shoes that don’t fit, high-heeled shoes, and shoes that aren’t appropriate for what you’re doing.
Uneven surfaces
Uneven surfaces unbalance you, making it easier for you to turn your ankle.
Not warming up
If you exercise without warming up first, your joints are cold and less flexible, which makes it easier to injure them.
Sports participation
Fast-moving sports activities like basketball, football, soccer, running, and lacrosse involve a lot of running, jumping, twisting, and sudden stopping that can more easily lead to an ankle sprain.
If you’ve sprained your ankle, visit the team at Albuquerque Associated Podiatrists. They’ll treat your ankle and offer guidance on how you can avoid sprains.
How do you treat a sprained ankle?
For a mild sprain, you can follow the RICE protocol — rest, ice, compression, and elevation — and use pain-relief medication if necessary.
More severe sprains will limit your movements. Your podiatrist can recommend rehabilitation exercises to restore your range of motion, a crutch or cane to help you avoid putting weight on it, and/or medical tape for extra support.
When a sprain shows no sign of getting better, you’ve likely damaged the ligaments, in which case your doctor will talk to you about surgery.
You can cause long-term damage if you don’t seek the proper treatment for a sprained ankle. Call Albuquerque Associated Podiatrists or book a consultation online if you’re living with ankle pain.
