Ankle Sprain Treatment

Ankle Sprain Treatments in Wayne, New Jersey

Ankle sprains are some of the most common injuries that affect the lower extremities. If you are currently struggling with one, get in touch with High Mountain Orthopedics. Our doctors are experts in treating ankle sprains and similar injuries. We have three convenient locations in Wayne, New Jersey, where we serve patients throughout the area with qualified care.

What Are Ankle Sprains?

Your ankles are composed of a detailed network of small bones, held together with connective fibers called ligaments. These fibers are responsible for stabilizing the joint and making sure it doesn’t bend beyond a natural range of motion. Very sudden jolts or jerks, however, can forcefully push the foot farther than it should go – tearing ligaments along the way. This often results in a sprain and symptoms like:

• Sharp pain immediately after twisting your ankle
• Bruising and discoloration under the skin
• Swelling and tenderness around the joint
• Weakness, instability, and inability to put weight on the ankle
• Pain that worsens when you put weight on the affected foot

If you sustain an injury and suspect an ankle sprain, speak with a doctor immediately. Some sprains can repair themselves after self-care. Many, however, require medical attention before they will recover completely. Significant damage may heal improperly, leading to long-term consequences like mobility impairments and chronic pain.

Major Causes and Risk Factors

Sprained ankles occur when the foot is forced out of its normal position. Usually, this is the result of a sudden change of direction. It could be a fall, landing awkwardly after a jump, or rolling your ankle on an uneven surface. It can happen to anyone, but there are a few factors that can increase your risk of an ankle sprain. These include:

• Participating in sports that require running, jumping, and cutting action
• Walking or running on uneven surfaces or in poor conditions
• Participating in athletic activities without the proper conditioning
• Wearing shoes, especially high heels, that are inappropriate for an activity
• Having sustained a previous sprain or another ankle injury

Our Ankle Sprain Treatments

Treatment for a sprained ankle depends on its severity. Always have an orthopedist check your injury, as they can tell you how severe it is and whether it requires special care. Doctors will likely recommend a self-care treatment for mild sprains. This method includes rest, ice baths, compression, and elevation to encourage the ankle to heal. Once the swelling and pain decrease, a physical therapy program will help restore strength and flexibility in the injured joint.

In rare cases, the sprain doesn’t heal after self-care and therapy. If the ligament won’t repair itself, surgery may be necessary. A ligament repair surgery involves stitching together the torn fibers so they will heal properly. Surgeons may also reconstruct damaged ligaments with tissue from a nearby tendon. The surgery will be followed by physical therapy to ensure a successful recovery.

Seek Treatment for Your Sprained Ankle at High Mountain Orthopedics

If you or a loved one has recently sprained an ankle, seek treatment at High Mountain Orthopedics. Our team of experts can evaluate your injury and help you choose an appropriate treatment. Contact us to find out more or to schedule an appointment for ankle sprain treatment in Wayne, New Jersey.