According to a few studies conducted by the University of North Carolina Charlotte, the woes of ankle sprains can linger for the rest of your life. Tricia Hubbard-Turner, professor of kinesiology at the university states that the ankles are the base of the body, making them especially fragile and injury prone. In one study, Hubbard-Turner use 20 college student participants with ankle chronic ankle instability (CAI) and 20 student participants with no ankle problems and had them walk with a pedometer for a week. The results showed that the students with CAI walked 2,000 fewer steps. In another study, young adult mice were put into three groups and each group were given a different level of sprain. After given time to heal, 70% of mice showed symptoms of CAI after just one ankle injury. The researchers stated that CAI symptoms can persist or develop after a year of surgery.
Ankle sprains are common, but need immediate attention. If you have any concerns about your potential ankle sprain contact one of our podiatrists of Wayne Foot and Ankle Center, P.A. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What are the Symptoms?
- Mild to moderate bruising
- Limited mobility
- Swelling
- Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)
Preventing a Sprain
- Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
- Stretching before exercises and sports
- Knowing your limits can aid in prevention
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Wayne and West Milford, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
