Ankle Sprains

Few sensations are as shocking as when you step down or fall, causing your ankle to roll and pop. Sameep Chandrani, DPM, AACFAS, and the team at Mercer Foot and Ankle Center, LLC, in Hamilton, New Jersey, can evaluate your sprained ankle to determine what kind of treatment you need. To find out what degree of ankle sprain you have and if it requires professional care, call Mercer Foot and Ankle Center, LLC, or request an appointment online today.

What is an ankle sprain?

Ankle sprains occur when you roll or twist your ankle in a way that stretches the ligaments that stabilize the joint. Ligaments are bands of tissue that hold your bones together. 

The category of ankle sprain is determined by how much damage the ligaments sustain. A mild sprain typically involves slight stretching and microscopic tears of the ligament fibers, while a moderate sprain consists of a partial ligament tear that causes ankle instability—a severe sprain results in a completely torn ligament that causes significant pain and ankle swelling.  

What are the symptoms of an ankle sprain?

Symptoms of an ankle sprain vary depending on the severity of your injury, but may include:

• Ankle pain, especially when bearing weight
• Swelling and bruising
• Limited range of motion
• Tenderness to the touch
• Popping sound or sensation (indicates a torn ligament)
• Ankle instability

Symptoms of a sprained ankle can sometimes be confused with other ailments that cause ankle pain, such as an Achilles tendon injury. If you suspect an ankle sprain, call Mercer Foot and Ankle Center, LLC, to receive an accurate diagnosis. 

What causes ankle sprains?

Almost anyone can experience an ankle sprain. You can sprain your ankle while walking on an uneven surface or falling in a way that causes your ankle to twist. Ankle sprains are also common sports injuries, especially in athletes who participate in sports that involve a lot of jumping and changing directions while running, like soccer and basketball. 

How are ankle sprains diagnosed and treated?

First, the team at Mercer Foot and Ankle Center, LLC, thoroughly examines your foot and ankle to check for tenderness and limited range of motion. They may also take imaging tests, such as:

• X-ray to rule out a broken bone
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan
• Musculoskeletal ultrasound

An ultrasound or MRI can reveal the extent of damage to the ligament and help your provider create a personalized treatment plan. Most ankle sprains resolve with nonsurgical treatments, such as:

• Rest, ice compression, and elevation (RICE)
• Immobilization in an ankle boot or brace
• Crutches
• Physical therapy

If your ankle pain persists even after conservative treatments, the team at Mercer Foot and Ankle Center, LLC, may recommend surgery followed by immobilization and a rehabilitation plan.

Call Mercer Foot and Ankle Center, LLC, or request an appointment online today to seek treatment for an ankle sprain.