A sprained ankle can cause pain and discomfort, as well as instability. A sprain makes it difficult to stand or walk on the injured ankle. Mild ankle sprains can often be treated at home, but more serious ankle sprains are best treated by a podiatrist. Untreated ankle sprains that do
not heal properly can lead to long-term ankle pain and other problems. At Active Podiatry, Dr. Yong Chae is your Indianapolis and Crawfordsville, IN, foot doctor for the treatment of ankle sprains.
Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains occur when the ankle twists the wrong way. For instance, the ankle might roll outward as your foot is turning inward. When the ankle turns in a different direction than the foot, ligaments in the ankle can be over-stretched and tear. Activities that put you at risk of spraining your ankle include working out, participating in sports, or performing high-impact movements, such as jumping. You can also sprain your ankle when walking on uneven surfaces or when wearing unstable footwear, such as high heels.
There are several signs that your ankle pain is due to a sprain. Signs you may have sprained your ankle include:
- Pain or discomfort
- Tenderness
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Instability
- Limited range of motion
Treatment Options
Several methods and options are available for treating ankle sprains. Your Indianapolis and Crawfordsville foot doctor can recommend the right combination of treatments for healing your particular injury. Treatments for ankle sprains include:
- Elevation and rest
- Ice or a cold compress
- Compression bandages, braces, or splints
- Physical therapy
- Massage therapy
- Stretching
- Pain relievers
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Surgery (for serious sprains)
The best way to prevent an ankle sprain is to strengthen the ankles and increase flexibility. Special exercises can increase strength, while stretching can improve flexibility. Wearing shoes the fit properly and provide stability can also help prevent ankle sprains.
If you have injured your ankle and have any of the signs of a sprain, see a podiatrist who can determine the severity of the injury and prescribe an appropriate course of treatment. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Chae, call Active Podiatry at (317) 328-6622 for the Indianapolis office or (765) 362-7200 for the Crawfordsville office.