Ankle sprained

Treating and healing ankle sprains: An injury to the ligaments of a joint is termed as a ‘sprain’. The ankle is one of the most frequently sprained joints. When extra force is applied on the ankle, or if it is planted awkwardly, especially on uneven ground, it results in injuring the ankle.

Symptoms Of Ankle Sprain: The symptoms of an ankle sprain are:

• The ankle seeming to ‘give way’ at the time of the injury.
• An excruciating pain at the time of impact, and its persistence thereafter.
• Difficulty in moving the joint.
• Swelling of the joint.
• Visible bruises on the injured spot.

Besides this, inability to walk properly could also be a symptom to a sprained ankle. There are three types of ankle sprains, classified according to the severity of the injury: when the ligaments have been stretched but are intact, a partial tear of the ligaments, and a complete rupture of the ligament.

Treatment Of Sprained Ankles: Soon after an ankle sprain, care must be taken to keep the shoe on, tied tightly, to prevent swelling. Rest the foot by not putting weight on it. After the shoe is taken off, the leg should be elevated above heart level, and an ice pack applied on the ankle. This helps to reduce the pain and swelling. This treatment, also known as RICE (Rest Ice Compression Elevation), should be continued for the next 48 hours, unless the joint is visibly misshapen and extremely painful.

Anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and swelling can be taken to ensure quick recovery. On the second day of the injury, the ankle must be bathed in cold water for a minute, followed by hot water for three minutes. This cycle has to be repeated for at least fifteen minutes at a stretch. If there is still no improvement, medical advice should be taken.

Physiotherapy is good treatment of a severe ankle sprain. A physiotherapist can recommend exercises for healing sprained ankles, and also use heat, ultrasound, or other treatments. It is also usual to put a patient on crutches or in special boots to help with ankle stability. Alternatively, a brace or a tape can be used to support the ankle, depending on the severity of the injury. This will prevent the ankle from being sprained again and is particularly helpful for sportspersons returning to sporting activities.

To Picture A Sprained Ankle: A doctor usually examines the sprained ankle, looking for joint and ligament injuries. An X-ray picture may be recommended to check for fractures. In severe cases, an MRI picture will be necessary to assess ligament damage.

Ankle Wraps For Rehabilitation: If you want to know how to heal a sprained ankle, there are a variety of wraps available in the market for rehabilitation. The ‘Infrared Ankle Wrap’ can be used as a support for all sports and outdoor activities. This wrap is particularly helpful for a swollen or sprained ankle. The ‘Push Care Ankle Brace’ provides pressure around the ankle joint. This improves the stability of the joint.

Since ankle injuries can lead to long-term disability, or chronic pain, and make the ankle vulnerable to re-injury, proper care should be taken using therapy and an exercise program, to heal the foot quickly and effectively.