Sprained Ankle Specialist

What causes a sprained ankle?

Several bands of ligaments that keep your bones together support your ankle joint. These connective tissues are durable and designed to bear your entire body weight, not to mention handle any turn or jump you may take.

But a swift move in the wrong direction, or playing a sport without properly warming up, can overstretch or even tear your ankle ligaments, which is what causes a sprain. It’s common to sprain an ankle when you:

• Fall or land incorrectly
• Miss or skip a step on stairs
• Walk or run on an uneven surface
• Pivot and roll your ankle

In sporting events, you can even roll and sprain your ankle when someone else steps on your foot. Other times, though, you could just be prone to having frequent ankle sprains because you were born with weak ankles.

How is a sprained ankle treated?

As soon as your injury occurs — even if bruising and swelling haven’t started yet — request an evaluation at Town Center Foot & Ankle. Early intervention and treatment can help lessen the discomfort you experience and help you strengthen your ankle to minimize recurring ankle sprains.

Depending on the severity of your sprained ankle, your treatment plan can involve:

• Bracing or splinting
• In-office physical therapy
• Anti-inflammatory medications

Of course, the most important part of treating an ankle injury early on is to stay off of it, keep it elevated, and ice it at regular intervals. Once you’re healed, you may benefit from getting fitted for custom orthotic inserts to help keep your ankle stable and decrease your risk of future injury.

Do I need surgery for a sprained ankle?

Possibly, if your ankle ligament is severely sprained or torn. Sprained ankle surgery involves repairing a ligament that won’t heal, or possibly reconstructing a damaged ligament with a tissue graft from a nearby ligament or tendon.

Your foot and ankle surgeon at Town Center Foot & Ankle uses modern, minimally invasive techniques to repair your sprained ankle, so you can expect minimal downtime and a full recovery.

Request your sprained ankle evaluation at Town Center Foot & Ankle today. Call your closest clinic location or request an appointment online.