While it is true that it takes a few weeks for the sprain to become better, and sometimes light sprains tend to mend on their own. Nevertheless, it is always recommended to consult a podiatrist and get your ankle examined before it gets worse.
As you keep applying weight to your sprained ankle, there is a high chance that you will damage or tear the ligaments holding your ankles, resulting in excruciating pain. Therefore, before you decide to “walk it off”, consulting a podiatrist might help you prevent long-term injuries.
When you have an accident that impacts your ankle, your body rushes blood to the injured area to aid in the healing process. Given the placement of the ankle in relation to the heart, an injury to the ankle may take longer to heal, and swelling may persist even after full healing.
If you suffer weakness, bruising, or persistent discomfort from an ankle sprain, visit a qualified podiatrist without delay.
- Ankle Sprain: Swelling
Normally, swelling takes time to develop. It can take a few hours for it to manifest. For a minor to severe sprain, swelling might linger for up to 48 hours. When a ligament is ruptured, swelling might persist longer until it recovers.
- Ankle Sprain: Crutches
Your doctor could advise using crutches, a boot, or a brace or splint to take the weight off your ankle and offer stability and support. A sprained ankle may become worse, experience more agony, and take longer to recover if you apply too much pressure.
- Ankle Sprain: Therapy
Physical therapy may be advised by your doctor to help restore your strength and mobility. Athletes frequently receive physical treatment, as it has proven to be crucial for effective recovery.
Do not do the following if you have an ankle sprain:
- Do Not Massage
You might end up damaging a ligament if you massage or put pressure on it.
- Do Not Apply Heat
The usual inflammatory reaction includes warmth, redness, and swelling; adding heat will simply exacerbate the situation by making the swelling worse.
- Let The Sprain Heal
No matter how talented you are, you should not play through an acute injury since you might make the situation worse or hurt yourself in another place! You shouldn’t continue to walk with a limp just because you’re able to handle it. Get some rest, heal yourself, and then return stronger.
You can resume your normal activities after giving your ankle much time to recover. Your prognosis relies on how dedicated you are to regaining ankle strength via physical therapy and exercises. Your wounded ligament might deteriorate and put you at risk for further ankle sprains if your ankle hasn’t fully recovered or if you stopped doing the strengthening exercises.
At Auburn Foot Care Center, Dr. Brett Stark, our board-certified podiatrist, treats a variety of conditions such as diabetic foot care, sports injuries, bunions, ingrown toenails, arthritis, and pediatric foot care. We provide quality service and advanced technology care for patients in Lee County. Contact our office at 334-466-1401. We are in Auburn, Alabama. Our address is 1559 Professional Parkway. We also offer telemedicine appointments.
