Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains are among the most common injuries treated by podiatrists at Edison Foot Doctor, serving Edison and surrounding New Jersey communities. An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that stabilize the ankle joint are stretched or torn—typically from a sudden twist, roll, or awkward step. These injuries are frequent during sports, exercise, or even daily activities such as walking on uneven surfaces.
Types of Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains vary in severity depending on the extent of ligament damage:
- Grade 1 (Mild): Slight stretching or microscopic tears of the ligament fibers. Symptoms may include mild pain, tenderness, and minimal swelling.
- Grade 2 (Moderate): Partial ligament tear, leading to noticeable pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty putting weight on the ankle.
- Grade 3 (Severe): Complete ligament rupture causing severe pain, significant swelling, bruising, and joint instability.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Common symptoms of an ankle sprain include:
- Pain or tenderness around the ankle
- Swelling or bruising
- Limited range of motion
- Difficulty bearing weight or walking normally
At Edison Foot Doctor, Dr. Mithun Sivadasan performs a detailed physical examination and may recommend imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans to assess ligament damage and rule out fractures or related injuries.
Treatment Options
The goal of treatment is to relieve pain, restore stability, and promote proper healing. Depending on the severity of the sprain, treatment may include:
- RICE Protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation to control pain and swelling.
- Immobilization: Using a brace, splint, or walking boot to support the ankle during recovery.
- Physical Therapy: Guided rehabilitation exercises to strengthen the ankle, restore balance, and improve flexibility.
- Medication: Over-the-counter or prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs for pain relief.
- Surgical Repair: In rare or severe cases where ligaments are fully torn and instability persists, surgery may be required to reconstruct the damaged ligaments.
Prevention Tips
To help prevent ankle sprains:
- Always warm up before physical activities.
- Wear supportive footwear suited for your activity.
- Strengthen and stretch your ankle muscles regularly.
- Avoid uneven surfaces when possible.