Ankle Sprain

Up to 25,000 people suffer an ankle sprain each day. Without treatment, ankle sprains affect your mobility and quality of life. At Go Feet in Linwood and Mays Landing, New Jersey, board-certified podiatrist Stuart W. Honick, DPM, PT, specializes in diagnosing ankle sprains and treating them with a conservative and minimally invasive approach. Call the nearest Go Feet office today to schedule treatment for an ankle sprain, or book your appointment online. 

My ankle hurts. Is it an ankle sprain?

An ankle sprain occurs when you roll or twist your ankle, overextending the surrounding ligaments. Ligaments are tough bands of soft tissue that support your joints; they prevent excessive movement and hold your bones together.

A sprain injures your ligaments, resulting in swelling, stiffness, and pain. Most ankle sprains are mild and improve with rest, but treatment is essential if your symptoms worsen. 

What are the symptoms of an ankle sprain?

Ankle sprain symptoms include:

• Swelling
• Bruising
• Restricted range of motion
• Ankle instability
• Pain
• Tenderness

You might hear a popping sound at the time of the injury, depending on the severity of the sprain. 

Should I see a podiatrist about an ankle sprain?

Make an appointment at Go Feet if you have pain or swelling in your ankle. It’s important to get evaluated, even if your symptoms are mild. After an exam and diagnostic imaging, Dr. Honick develops a personalized treatment plan. 

How is an ankle sprain diagnosed?

Dr. Honick reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and examines your lower leg, ankle, and foot. He checks for bruising and redness and gently presses on your ankle and the surrounding skin to identify sensitive places.

By carefully moving your ankle, Dr. Honick can test its range of motion and see if moving it into specific positions causes pain. If your symptoms are severe, he orders diagnostic imaging, like X-rays or an MRI, to evaluate your bones, ankle joint, and the surrounding soft tissues.

How is an ankle sprain treated?

Ankle sprain treatment depends on the severity of the injury and your symptoms. Most minor sprains improve with conservative measures, like rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) or over-the-counter pain medication.

If your symptoms continue or worsen, Dr. Honick might prescribe an assistive device, like a cane or crutches. After your injury starts to heal, you might need physical therapy. Physical therapy uses stretches and exercises to restore your ankle’s strength, motion, and stability.

Surgery is rarely necessary. When it is, Dr. Honick uses minimally invasive surgical techniques, allowing for fewer risks and quicker recovery. 

Call the nearest Go Feet office today to schedule treatment for an ankle sprain, or book your appointment online.