A sprained ankle is a ligament injury that occurs when you awkwardly turn, roll or twist your ankle. This injury can stretch or damage the ligaments (tough bands of tissue) that help stabilize your joints and prevent excessive ankle movement. Although over-the-counter pain relievers and self-care measures are enough for treating sprained ankles, it is important to consider going for a medical evaluation to reveal the extent of your sprained ankle and determine more effective treatment solutions. Here, we will advise you on why you should visit Dr. Jaymes Granata in Las Vegas for your sprained ankle problem.
What Causes Sprained Ankles?
Sprained ankle injuries happen when the ligaments are forced to move out of their normal range of motion. This movement can cause either one or more of your ankle’s ligaments to partially stretch, rip, or tear permanently. Below are some of the leading causes of sprained ankles:
- A fall that forces your ankle to twist
- Exercising or walking on an uneven surface
- Someone landing or stepping on your foot during a sports activity
- Performing errands too soon after injuring your ankle
- Landing awkwardly on your feet after jumping
Repeatedly or failing to treat your sprained ankle properly might lead to other fatal complications such as chronic ankle joint instability, arthritis in the ankle joint, and severe ankle pain.
Symptoms of a Sprained Ankle
Once you feel any swelling or pain in your ankle after a sprain, make sure to call your doctor. Your doctor will examine the severity of your sprained ankle and come up with suitable treatments. The following are some of the main signs and symptoms of a sprained ankle:
- Swelling
- Instability in your ankle
- Tenderness when you feel your ankle
- Bruising
- Pain, especially when you exert pressure on the injured foot
- Popping sound or sensation at the time of injury
- Restricted range of motion in your ankle
How to Prevent a Sprained Ankle
The following are some easy-to-follow self-care measures that help prevent a repetitive sprained ankle:
- Wear shoes that are appropriate to your activity
- Maintain good muscle flexibility and strength
- Minimize wearing high-heeled shoes
- Practice stability training regularly
- Be careful when running or walking on uneven surfaces
- Don’t participate in activities or sports in which you are not fit
- Warm-up before exercising or playing sports
- Use an ankle support brace to support a weak, injured ankle
Managing Sprained Ankle Pain
In most cases, treatments for sprained ankles are non-surgical. But it is vital to fully understand your immediate diagnosis and come up with suitable treatment solutions as soon as possible. For severe, untreated cases for ankle sprains, possible treatments include:
- Immobilization and use of crutches
- Targeted exercises and stretching to improve ankle stability and strength
- Over-the-counter pain medication
- Surgery
- Rest and ice
When Does a Sprained Ankle Need Surgery?
Provided your strained ankles remain unstable and weak even after conservative care, Dr. Granata will recommend surgical options suitable to the extent of your injury.
Conclusion
By using state-of-the-art surgical equipment and a small camera to remove excessive and damaged fragments of ligament, bone, or cartilage, Dr. Granata performs all necessary procedures to evaluate and repair your injury for any of your sprained ankle problems. Call the center today or book online with Battle Born Bone & Joint
