Don’t let a sprained ankle stop you from the lifestyle you want
What is a sprained ankle?
A sprained ankle is a sprain or stretch of your ligaments which connect your bones together. A ligament is a fibrous tissue which connects one bone to another and so provides stability. Muscles, tendons, and ligaments become sprained due to overstretching or overuse and this causes the ligaments to stretch beyond their normal capacity. A sprain can range in severity from a minor injury to a complete tear of the ligament.
Common causes
- A direct blow to a joint
- A hard fall, either on an outstretched hand or directly onto the foot or ankle
- Twisting of the foot or ankle
A sprained ankle is a painful injury that can be best prevented with proper Chiropractic treatment and a stretching routine. If you do get a sprain Vancouver Orthotic Clinics can help you get back on your feet.
Treat ankle sprains with Vancouver Orthotic Clinics.
Why is ankle injury such a problem?
The ankle is the most susceptible part of the body to injury because it is a weight bearing joint. Most of the body’s weight is supported by the lower limbs and the ankle has to support the entire body’s weight.
Ankle injuries can be a significant problem. This is because in addition to the ankle joint’s role in bearing the weight of the body it also allows for mobility and movement. Any injury to the ankle can affect its ability to support the body and may result in ankle pain, swelling, limited range of motion, and difficulty walking or standing. Untreated injuries can lead to chronic pain, joint instability, and an increased risk of further injuries.
What to do if you do get a sprained ankle?
A simple sprain can be treated with:
Rest: Avoid putting weight on the injured ankle and rest for the first 24-48 hours.
Ice: Apply ice to the injured ankle for 20-30 minutes at a time, several times a day.
Compression: Use an elastic bandage to wrap the ankle to help reduce swelling.
Elevation: Keep the injured ankle elevated above the heart to reduce swelling.
Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
Rehabilitation: Once the pain and swelling have subsided, rehabilitation exercises can help improve strength and flexibility in the ankle.
If you have a moderate sprain, you will need to take anti-inflammatory medications and apply heat to the area. If you have a complete tear of the ligament, you will need to seek the proper chiropractic treatment.
Treatment for ankle pain is available at Vancouver Orthotics.
When should you seek medical attention for a sprained ankle?
You should seek medical attention for a sprained ankle if you experience severe pain, swelling, or bruising that does not improve within a few days. Other situations pointing to the need for medical attention are difficulty walking or putting weight on the affected ankle or numbness or tingling in your foot. It’s also important to seek medical attention if you have previously injured the same ankle, or if you have a medical condition that affects your bones or joints.
Try Vancouver Orthotic Clinics for Ankle Sprain. Diagnosis and Treatment by Dr. Michael Horowitz, call 604-737-3668 to schedule an appointment or book online here.
