Signs You May Have a Sprained Ankle

Ankle sprains can be serious and should be given immediate attention and care, despite not being as severe as a broken ankle. An ankle sprain can lead to a significant amount of pain, as well as limited mobility. They are often characterized by swelling and discoloration of the skin, which occurs when the ligaments are stretched beyond their limits.

Possible Causes

The simple act of walking can sometimes cause sprains, which makes them a very common injury for anyone. They occur when the ankle twists in an awkward way or rolls over itself, causing a pop or snap in the tendons around the ankle. Some people are more at risk than others, such as athletes who continually push their bodies to the limit and people who have previously suffered accidents to the feet, ankles, or lower legs.

The Importance of Seeking Professonal Care

If you believe you have an ankle sprain, it is important to contact your podiatrist immediately. Ankle sprains can turn into severe injuries that may require hospitalization. If the ankle ligaments or muscles are damaged from a tear or rip, the sprain may be severe enough to warrant going to the hospital and potentially undergoing surgery. Even after surgery, the recovery process can be long, often involving rehabilitation sessions with a podiatrist to get your ankle back to full strength and health.

Indicators of Severity

The severity of your sprain may become apparent if you are unable to stand or walk, if non-stop pain is occurring over a prolonged period of time, if swelling is much more severe than initially present, or if you start to experience tingling or numbness. These signs may indicate that your ankle sprain may actually be a broken ankle, which requires immediate medical attention.

Preventative Measures

While not completely avoidable, ankle sprains can be curbed with some preventative treatment measures. One example is wearing appropriately fitting shoes that not only provide a comfortable fit, but also ankle support. It is also recommended to stretch before doing any kind of physical activity, as this will help lower your body’s chance for injury.