Ankle sprains and strains are the most common injuries treated by podiatrists, and they often happen without any warning. A severe sprain can happen from just awkwardly stepping on the curb while going to get the mail.

An ankle sprain occurs when the ankle rolls outwards while the foot is firmly planted on the floor thereby causing severe strain and stretching to the ligaments and tendons that support the ankle joint. In severe cases the tendons and bones can break, requiring surgery to repair the damage.

 Treatments for ankle sprains include the following:

• Rest, Icing, Compression, and Elevation (RICE) —Immediately take the weight off the affected foot and apply ice to reduce inflammation and pain. A compression wrap helps prevent bruising and raising your foot above your heart level helps reduce swelling.
• Immobilization—You may need to wear a rigid boot or walk with the help of crutches to immobilize the ankle joint and reduce the weight and pressure on the foot during the healing process.
• Physical therapy exercises—It is crucial to slowly strengthen and improve flexibility in the ankle joint after the initial healing period to avoid another sprain.
• Surgery—For extreme injuries, reconstructive ankle surgery to repair any damaged ligaments and bones may be required. Arthroscopic surgery can be used to remove loose pieces of bone and other debris in the ankle joint.

Always have severe ankle sprains treated with the help of your foot doctor since poorly treated ankle sprains can lead to incomplete healing leaving the ankle more susceptible to another injury. Seeing your podiatrist is the best way to receive the proper diagnosis and treatment. Call Syracuse Podiatry located in East Syracuse, New York. Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Payel Ghosh and their staff will help you diagnose and treat your foot or ankle condition. Call 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online today.