Don’t Dismiss Ankle Sprains!

An ankle sprain might seem like a minor injury – a quick twist, a moment of pain, and then you’re back on your feet. But dismissing an ankle sprain, even if it seems mild, can have serious consequences. As podiatrists, we see firsthand the long-term problems that can arise from untreated or improperly treated sprains. Below, Step by Step Family Foot Care explains why taking ankle sprains seriously is crucial for your long-term health.

Understanding Ankle Sprain Severity: It’s Not Just a “Twist”

Ankle sprains are graded based on the severity of ligament damage:

• Grade 1 (Mild): Ligament is stretched but not torn. Mild pain, swelling, and tenderness.
• Grade 2 (Moderate): Partial tearing of the ligament. More significant pain, swelling, bruising, and some instability.
• Grade 3 (Severe): Complete tear of the ligament. Severe pain, swelling, bruising, and significant instability. Often unable to bear weight.

The Downward Spiral: Consequences of Neglecting Ankle Sprains

Ignoring an ankle sprain or failing to rehabilitate it properly can lead to a cascade of problems:

• Chronic Pain: Persistent pain that lingers long after the initial injury.
• Recurrent Sprains: A weakened, unstable ankle is much more vulnerable to re-injury. Each sprain further damages the ligaments, creating a vicious cycle.
• Chronic Ankle Instability: This is a condition where the ankle feels loose and gives way frequently, even during everyday activities. It can significantly limit your mobility and participation in sports.
• Early-Onset Arthritis: Repeated damage to the ligaments and cartilage can accelerate the development of arthritis in the ankle joint.

Who’s at Risk? Different Sprains, Different Demographics

• Lateral Ankle Sprains: The most common type, involving the ligaments on the outside of the ankle. It often occurs during sports involving quick changes in direction, like basketball, soccer, or tennis. Young athletes are particularly susceptible.
• Medial Ankle Sprains: Less common, involving the ligaments on the inside of the ankle.
• High Ankle Sprains: Involve the ligaments above the ankle joint (the syndesmosis). These are more serious and take longer to heal. Often occur in high-impact sports.
• “Hidden” Sprains in Older Adults: Older adults may experience ankle instability and subtle ligament damage without a clear “twisting” injury. This can be due to age-related weakening of ligaments, decreased proprioception (sense of body position), and increased risk of falls.

Beyond R.I.C.E.: How a Podiatrist Can Help

While R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) is a good starting point for mild sprains, a podiatrist offers a much more comprehensive approach, using braces, boots, or casts to protect the ankle and allow ligaments to heal. Physical therapy or MLS Laser Therapy can both work well, but for chronic instability or severe sprains, we may consider surgery.

Bottom line? An ankle sprain is not something to simply “walk off.” If you’ve sprained your ankle, see us for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan!

Step By Step Family Foot Care is here to assist you with your podiatry needs. To make an appointment with Dr. Debra Manheim, call us at (973) 917-3785 or visit our site to schedule an appointment. The staff at our Parsippany office is ready and eager to help.