Have you experienced an ankle sprain?

Ankle sprains are painful. They can be debilitating and lead to severe foot issues if not addressed as soon as possible. If you've experienced prolonged ankle pain, you'll need to talk to your Chicago, IL, podiatrist at Affiliated Podiatrists for more information.

More About Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains aren't just because you lost your balance. It can be a result of playing sports or walking and/or running on uneven surfaces.

Ankle sprains are one of the most common foot injuries. They are usually accompanied by: swelling, severe pain, bruising, ankle instability, tenderness, limping and limited range of motion

Bone fractures are sometimes confused with ankle sprains. This is extremely important to prevent severe long-term repercussions. Only your Chicago doctor can properly diagnose an ankle sprain. They will physical and visual exam, as well as x-rays to detect the problem in your ankle.

There are several things that lead to ankle sprains, including:

• Losing your balance while walking, which may result in pain, your ankle twists inward due to an unexpected movement
• A tear, or stretch in one or more of your ligaments

How do you treat an ankle sprain?

Rehabilitating your ankle after you can stand on it is necessary. Your doctor may provide you with certain exercises to strengthen your: flexibility, muscles, ligaments, coordination and balance.

Treating your sprained ankle properly will increase the rate of your recovery.

All you need to remember is RICE:

• Rest
• Ice
• Compress
• Elevate

In addition to RICE, avoid overexerting your ankle. Walking, jogging, running, and other activities will come back after your rehabilitation and recovery process.

Are you in need of a consultation?

For more information on how to deal with sprained ankles, just call your Chicago, IL, podiatrists at Affiliated Podiatrists, today at (773) 202-8800.