Twisting your foot and causing an ankle sprain is one of the most common injuries treated by podiatrists.
Twisting your foot and causing an ankle sprain is one of the most common injuries treated by podiatrists. Just stepping absentmindedly on the curb crossing the street while staring at your phone can have you limping in pain in no time. Ankle sprains also frequently occur during sports and exercise. Treating an ankle sprain correctly is essential for proper healing to occur and to avoid additional injuries that can lead to chronic pain, stiffness, and instability.
Be sure to see your foot doctor if you have a severe ankle sprain for a proper physical exam. Imaging studies such as x-rays or MRI may be needed to check for soft tissue damage and to confirm if there are any broken bones.
Treatment for ankle sprains includes the following:
● The RICE method: (rest, ice, compression, elevation)
● Pain relievers like ibuprofen and Tylenol
● Crutches may be necessary to take the weight and stress off the foot and ankle
● A walking boot or cast may be required to immobilize the ankle joint while it heals
● Physical therapy exercises are essential for restoring strength, flexibility, and stability
Preventing an ankle injury from occurring in the first place or preventing a reinjury involves some practical advice like warming up before exercise, and wearing properly fitted shoes that are appropriate for the activity. Custom orthotic inserts can be used to increase balance and prevent falls and injuries.
If you need help treating an ankle sprain, the foot specialists at ETL Podiatry in Briarwood and Melville, NY, have unparalleled experience in treating all aspects of foot and ankle problems. Our team of doctors that includes Geoffrey C. Epstein, DPM, Matthew J. Tavroff, DPM, Stuart B. Leon, DPM, and Robert J. Leon, DPM is dedicated to serving you with all of the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies. If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Melville, NY (631)-549-8637 and Briarwood, NY (718)-657-8921.