A Podiatrist’s Guide to Ankle Sprains
“Just a sprain…I’ll walk it off.”
That thought is typical for casual athletes and top tier competitors alike. Here’s the thing, however: neglecting a sprain can be dangerous! Without proper care, an untreated sprain can quickly spiral into long term complications and instability. That means more time on the sidelines and less time pushing toward your fitness goals.
Fortunately, Oak Foot & Ankle is here to help! In the following blog, we’re breaking down the basics of different sprain “grades,” the long-term consequences of neglect, and what you can do to ensure a solid recovery.
Ankle Sprain Grades: Understanding the Damage
- Grade 1 (Mild): Ligament stretched, not torn. Mild pain, swelling, tenderness. You can usually bear weight.
- Grade 2 (Moderate): Partial ligament tear. Moderate pain, difficulty bearing weight, significant swelling/bruising, instability.
- Grade 3 (Severe): Complete ligament tear. Severe pain (initially), significant swelling/bruising, inability to bear weight, loose ankle. Possible “pop” at injury.
The Downward Spiral: 3 Major Risks of Neglect
1. Chronic Ankle Instability
Sprained ligaments, if not healed properly, become lax. This leads to chronic ankle instability: a wobbly ankle that gives way easily, even on level ground.
Think: a stretched-out rubber band. It loses its support!
2. Recurrent Sprains: A Vicious Cycle
An unstable ankle is much more likely to be re-injured. Each sprain further damages ligaments, worsening instability and pain. This creates a cycle of repeated injury.
3. Arthritis: Long-Term Joint Damage
Repeated sprains and instability damage ankle joint cartilage – the protective cushion between bones. This damage accelerates osteoarthritis, causing:
- Chronic, deep aching pain
- Stiffness (especially in the morning)
- Swelling and inflammation
- Reduced mobility
Beyond R.I.C.E.: See a Podiatrist!
R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) is a good start for mild sprains, but not a complete treatment. A podiatrist offers:
- Accurate Diagnosis: Determining the sprain’s grade and ruling out fractures.
- Personalized Treatment: Bracing, a walking boot, physical therapy referrals, or, RARELY, surgery.
- Rehabilitation Guidance: A structured plan to restore strength, flexibility, and proprioception (balance) – key to preventing re-injury.
Don’t Risk It
An ankle sprain is more than a minor inconvenience. Ignoring it risks chronic pain, instability, and arthritis, so see a podiatrist for any ankle sprain for expert diagnosis and treatment and protect your long-term ankle health!
Oak Foot and Ankle in Oak Lawn, IL, provides expert podiatric care for patients of all ages. Specializing in sports medicine, diabetic foot care, and innovative treatments, we help you stay active and comfortable. Need assistance? Contact us today!
