Taking a casual attitude toward a sprained ankle may lead to crippling pain. You may also get limited range of motion, ankle instability (with possibility of re-injury) and arthritis. Sprained ankles are serious business.
A Sprained Ankle often means a Broken Bone
Many times someone comes in with a sprained ankle only to find out they have a broken bone in their foot or leg. If bones around the ankle heal wrong, you could end up with long term problems with your ankle.
How Do I Know If I Have a Sprained Ankle?
Did you know that, according to the American College of Sports Medicine, 25,000 Americans are treated for sprained ankles every day with 40 percent of them being misdiagnosed or wrongly treated.
By going to the podiatrist first, you are assured that you are being examined by an expert who only treats feet and ankles. You also get faster treatment and may be able to avoid the long waiting times and high cost of the emergency room.
What Does A Sprained Ankle Feel Like?
Patients with a sprained ankle will have a swollen, painful ankle that may also look black and blue. The bruising and swelling are caused by broken blood vessels from the tearing of soft tissue. You will notice that the black and blue area gets larger over a 24 hour period. There will be additional swelling over the next 24 hours.
Why Do I Keep Spraining My Ankle?
Some people are predisposed to ankle sprains. People most at risks for ankle sprains have a heel that is slightly turned toward the inside of their foot. People who are active in sports that have running and jumping are also prone to ankle sprains.
How Can I Protect My Ankle?
