When most ankle sprains happen, the ankle is flexed and inverted the foot turned inward toward the opposite foot.
With rest and proper treatment, most ankle sprains heal within 4—6 weeks. But some can take longer. Most ankle sprains happen when the ankle twists, or when the foot rolls onto its side. Most happen during athletic activities. But you don't have to be playing sports to injure an ankle — sprains can happen from taking an awkward step or tripping on the stairs. To diagnose ankle sprains, doctors ask about the injury and do an exam. They'll check the bones and soft tissue of the ankle, watch the person's range of motion, and do strength tests.
Sometimes, the doctor may order an X-ray or other imaging study to see if there are other injuries, such as a broken bone. Doctors may treat a more serious ankle sprain with a splint or temporary cast. Very rarely, a person might need surgery. If you have an ankle sprain, you'll probably need to take some time off from sports and other strenuous physical activities. Make sure your sprained ankle is completely healed first.
Not overdoing things is key when it comes to sprains. So follow your doctor's advice and don't push yourself or feel pressure to get back into sports or other activities too soon. Try flexing the foot forward, then backward, or rolling it clockwise, then counterclockwise.
However, it is important to avoid overextending the ankle or moving it in any direction that hurts. The pain and swelling that immediately follow an ankle sprain may be severe. This can make it impossible for a person to put any weight on the joint. As the swelling goes down, walking can promote healing. Start by walking short distances within the house. Then, gradually build up to longer distances as the ankle begins to heal.
However, walking may require a person to hold the injured ankle in an unusual position or twist the body to avoid putting excess weight on the joint. If this is the case, wait 1—2 days, then try again. Exercise can restore strength and balance, while preventing the muscles in the area from weakening.
This can reduce the risk of another sprain. After the swelling goes down and walking is comfortable, it may be a good idea to start exercising the ankle. A person can try performing the following exercises for 10—15 minutes every other day:. Massage can help ease pain while promoting blood flow to the sprained area. If the injury is particularly severe or painful, a person should seek advice from a qualified massage therapist.
For less severe injuries, a person can try gentle massage at home. Some people find that massaging the bottom of the foot or heel provides relief. Others prefer to massage around or just above the ankle. Physical therapy may especially benefit anyone who experiences long-term pain following a serious sprain and anyone with a history of similar injuries.
The physical therapist will use this information to create a customized exercise plan that promotes healing and eases pain. According to a popular myth, a doctor can do nothing to treat a sprain. It is true that sprains do not usually require casts and often heal on their own. However, the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons recommend that anyone who suspects that they have a sprain see a doctor. They may be mistaken and have a different injury that requires treatment, or they may have additional injuries, such as broken bones, which is common.
Also, a doctor can assess the severity of the sprain. Particularly serious sprains can require surgery, physical therapy , and other long-term treatments. Delaying medical attention can delay rehabilitation. If the pain is mild and a person prefers home treatment, they can wait a day or two.
If the swelling does not go down or the pain gets worse, they should see a doctor. Sprains are common and usually heal on their own. However, severe sprains that completely sever the ligament may require months of healing and possibly surgery.
Do not ignore the pain of an ankle sprain or assume that there is nothing a doctor can do. Prompt treatment can speed recovery and reduce the risk of a chronic or secondary injury. A sprained toe is a common injury that is often tender and painful. When they are injured, a significant period of immobility may be required to fully recover.
As your ankle recovers from such an injury, weight can gradually be applied to it. Initially, walking should be aided by a support system like a cane or crutches.
Adopting the classic R. Rest — Rest your ankle as much as possible. Ice — Apply ice packs or submerge your foot and ankle in cold water.
Compression — Use an elastic ankle sleeve or an elasticized wrap to help reduce swelling. Elevation — Elevate your ankle to the height of your hip when in a seated position.
Tip: Avoid hot showers, heat rubs, or hot packs, as this may increase swelling and prolong your recovery time. Generally, within 72 hours, you can begin stretching and range-of-motion exercises. You should continue these exercises until your ankle has recovered to the point of pre-injury conditions.
Tip: A series of reflexology massages may significantly accelerate your recovery from a sprained ankle. Note: Remaining immobile for extended periods without initiating some sort of exercise or rehabilitation regimen can lead to further complications or delays in your recovery. Two weeks to six months. However, recovery time for a sprained ankle will vary from case to case, requiring different care and recovery approaches. This recovery time can change a lot based on:.
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