Sprains are one of the most common types of soft-tissue injuries that can affect the feet and ankles. To get out of pain and recover more quickly, see the specialists at Healthy Step Podiatry in Midtown East and the Financial District of New York City. Podiatrists Vito La Puma, DPM, offers comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of sprains to get your back on your feet, pain-free. To schedule an exam, call or book online today.
What is a sprain?
A sprain occurs when a ligament is overstretched and becomes loose, or possibly torn. Ankle sprains happen most often when you roll your ankle outward or inward, though other types of trauma and abnormal movements can sprain your ligaments.
Sprains are one of the leading causes of soft-tissue injuries, especially in the feet and ankles, but with proper treatment from Healthy Step Podiatry, you can be back on your feet as quickly as possible.
What are the signs of a sprain?
Common signs of sprains include:
- Soreness, tenderness, and swelling near the injured area
- Possible bruising if a ligament is torn
- Joint instability
- Pain when moving or stretching the injured area
- Difficulty bearing weight
- Feeling like your leg might give out underneath you
Severe sprains can tear one or more ligaments and may even cause fractures. If you experience severe bruising and swelling, the team takes X-rays immediately in order to determine the best course of treatment.
What types of ankle sprains can occur?
Ankle sprains can occur in three main areas, all of which present with specific symptoms:
Lateral ankle sprains
Lateral ankle sprains are the most common type of sprain and they occur on the outside of the ankle. They happen when your foot rolls inward and the ligaments on the outside of your ankle are overstretched. This is also called an inversion sprain.
Medial ankle sprains
Medial ankle sprains occur in the inside of your ankle and happen when your foot rolls outward. Severe medial ankle sprains can be accompanied by fractures of bones on the inside of your ankle. This is also called an eversion sprain.
High ankle sprains
While they’re less common, high ankle sprains take the longest to recover. They occur when the ligaments connecting your two shin bones — your tibia and fibula — are overstretched. High ankle sprains are often the result of a fracture.
The team performs a thorough evaluation, including taking X-rays when needed, in order to determine your diagnosis and the severity of your sprain.
What is the treatment for sprains?
Most cases of mild to moderate sprains resolve with the use of:
- Rest
- Ice
- Compression
- Elevation
- Physical therapy
- Medications for pain and inflammation
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent chronic pain and may reduce your risk of future sprains. Chronic pain and dysfunction related to ankle sprains may also benefit from treatment with platelet-rich plasma (PRP). In some cases — such as severe ligament tears or fractures — surgical repair may be required.
Get an evaluation of your ankle sprain by calling or scheduling a visit at Healthy Step Podiatry now.