Sprained Ankles

Woodlands Hand To Shoulder Foot and Ankle Center -  - Hand, Wrist, and Elbow Surgery

Woodlands Hand To Shoulder Foot and Ankle Center

Hand, Wrist, and Elbow Surgery & Foot and Ankle Surgery located in Shenandoah, Sugarland, and Humble, TX

Sprained ankles are a common injury and affect people of all ages. Though the severity of the damage varies, sprained ankles benefit from a medical evaluation and treatment plan. At the Woodlands Hand To Shoulder Foot and Ankle Center in Shenandoah, Sugarland, and Humble, Texas, the team includes foot experts who provide care for sprained ankles. Call the office nearest you or book an appointment online today.

Sprained Ankles Q & A

What are sprained ankles?

Sprained ankles are injuries to the ligaments that connect the bones in your ankle. These types of injuries occur when you stretch the ligaments in the ankle beyond their normal capacity, causing a ligament tear.

Sprained ankles are a common injury and can occur when walking on an uneven surface, engaging in activities that cause twisting or rolling of the ankles (tennis or football), or during a fall. 

What are the symptoms of sprained ankles?

Ankle pain is the most common symptom of a sprained ankle. Other symptoms include:

  • Ankle swelling
  • Bruising
  • Tenderness at the joint
  • Difficulty walking or bearing weight on your ankle
  • Your ankle joint feels unstable and may “pop out” of place

Even a limited amount of pain or a wobbly ankle may be signs you have a sprained ankle. Without proper treatment, your ankle sprain may not heal properly, putting you at risk of developing ankle instability. 

Ankle instability is when your ankle gives out during regular daily activity, like walking. 

How are sprained ankles diagnosed?

The foot and ankle experts at Woodlands Hand To Shoulder Foot and Ankle Center conduct a thorough exam when you come in with symptoms of a sprained ankle.

Your provider asks detailed questions about the injury and your symptoms. Then, they examine your ankle and palpate your ligaments to locate the source of your pain. 

The experts at Woodlands Hand To Shoulder Foot and Ankle Center can diagnose sprained ankles based on symptoms and evaluation. However, they perform an X-ray of your ankle to confirm a diagnosis. 

How are sprained ankles treated?

Most sprained ankles improve without surgery. Treatment for a sprained ankle from the team at Woodlands Hand To Shoulder Foot and Ankle Center includes:

  • Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE)
  • Limiting the use of the affected ankle 
  • Exercises to restore strength and range of motion
  • Exercises to strengthen the joint help you get back to your usual activities

The length of your treatment may depend on the severity of your sprain. For example, minor sprained ankles heal within two weeks, while severe sprains may take up to 12 weeks to heal.

Woodlands Hand To Shoulder Foot and Ankle Center provides treatment to ensure proper healing of your sprained ankle. Call the office closest to you or book an appointment online today.