Whenever you run, jump, or play sports, you put your ankles under a lot of stress. It’s no surprise, then, that ankle sprains are probably the most common traumatic foot and ankle injury we see here at Burlington County Foot & Ankle Associates.
Of course, sports aren’t the only way to suffer a sprain. An awkward step off a curb or an unexpected trip or fall can yield the same result.
Although ankle sprains can vary significantly in severity and in terms of how they are treated, you should always seek professional advice and care any time you twist or injure your ankle. We can help you ensure that your ankle heals completely, reducing your risk of recurring injuries and chronic pain.
How Can I Tell If My Ankle Is Sprained?
Ankle sprains are usually caused by a sudden rolling, twisting, or turning motion that causes your ankle to become hyperextended. When this happens, one or more of the ligaments that connect the leg bones to the ankle bone becomes overstretched or torn.
The pain is usually sudden and noticeable, although the intensity of symptoms can vary widely depending on how severe the damage.
- Grade I sprain: Mild tenderness, swelling, pain, and stiffness. Walking is usually still possible with some discomfort, though not advised. The ligaments are overstretched but probably not torn, or only torn slightly.
- Grade II sprain: More severe tenderness and pain, and possible bruising. Walking is typically painful. At least one ligament is likely partially torn.
- Grade III sprain: Severe swelling, pain, and bruising. Ankle feels unstable and walking is typically impossible. One or more ligaments may be completely ruptured.
While it’s obvious that a Grade III sprain is a much more serious problem than a Grade I, failure to treat any sprain (even the mildest ones) properly can put you at greater risk of recurring long-term issues. Do not attempt to “walk off” a suspected ankle sprain!
What to Do If You Think You’ve Sprained Your Ankle
If you’ve injured your ankle, give us a call to make an appointment as soon as possible. We’re often available for same-day and next-day appointments, and we have extensive experience treating sprains and other foot and ankle injuries of all kinds.
In the meantime, immediately stop what you are doing and begin RICE therapy for the next 48–72 hours:
- Rest your ankle: Avoid bearing weight on the injured foot and keep it protected.
- Ice your ankle: Apply for up to 20 minutes at a time, no more than once per hour. Do not apply ice directly to skin; wrap in a thin towel first.
- Compress your ankle: Use a compression wrap to help minimize swelling. It should not be so tight that it cuts off circulation. If you don’t have wraps or aren’t confident, you can skip this step.
- Elevate your ankle: While resting, keep your ankle above the level of your heart as much as possible.
Studies show that those who follow RICE protocol in the first few days following an injury tend to have less pain and swelling and experience better results than those who do not.
Building Your Ankle Sprain Treatment Plan
The best treatment for your ankle sprain will depend on the severity of the initial injury.
For the mildest sprains, very little may be needed beyond RICE therapy, followed by a program of specific stretches and exercises to regain strength and range of motion.
For more moderate sprains, it’s often necessary to support and protect the ankle with bandages or bracing during the healing process. Severe sprains may require total immobilization with a walking boot or cast and crutches.
MLS laser therapy can be an effective treatment for sprains at any level of severity. It helps reduce pain and swelling while accelerating the natural tissue repair process. Many active patients choose it, but the benefits apply to people of all activity levels.
Our preference is to avoid surgery whenever possible, but it may be necessary in some cases to repair ruptured ligaments after a severe sprain. Surgery may also be considered if you’ve had multiple sprains and developed chronic instability.
Regardless of severity, proper post-sprain rehabilitation is key. Follow your rehab plan carefully, and do not begin stretches or exercises until cleared. In some cases, we may recommend custom orthotics or wearing ankle braces during activities to reduce future risks.
Comprehensive Ankle Sprain Care in Medford, NJ
Our practice works with youth athletes, blue collar workers, military personnel, seniors, and people of all ages and activity levels.
No matter who you are or what you do, an ankle sprain is a serious injury and deserves comprehensive care. We can help you heal as quickly as possible, so you can be back on your feet and enjoying your favorite activities with full confidence.
Give us a call at (609) 714-0052 to schedule today.
FAQs About Ankle Sprains
Q: What causes most ankle sprains?
A: Ankle sprains are usually caused by a sudden rolling, twisting, or turning motion that overstretches or tears the ligaments. Sports, missteps off curbs, or unexpected falls are common causes.
Q: How can I tell if my ankle is sprained?
A: Symptoms of an ankle sprain include sudden pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, and in severe cases, difficulty or inability to walk.
Q: What are the different grades of ankle sprains?
A: Ankle sprains are classified as Grade I (mild stretching, slight tearing), Grade II (partial ligament tear with more pain and swelling), and Grade III (complete ligament rupture, severe swelling, instability, and inability to walk).
Q: What should I do immediately after spraining my ankle?
A: Stop activity and begin RICE therapy—Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation—for 48–72 hours to reduce swelling and pain until you can see a foot and ankle specialist.
Q: How are ankle sprains treated?
A: Treatment depends on severity. Mild sprains may only require RICE and exercises, moderate sprains often need bandaging or bracing, and severe sprains may require immobilization, MLS laser therapy, or surgery.
Q: Why should I see a doctor for an ankle sprain?
A: Even mild sprains can lead to long-term issues if not treated properly. A podiatrist ensures proper healing, reduces the risk of recurring injuries, and may recommend orthotics or braces for prevention.