Ankle sprain can be described as an injury associated with ankle joint. This is one of the most common kinds of orthopedic injuries. It is said that this condition is commonly experienced by sports person. However it can affect anyone during daily activities.Ankle ligaments are usually injured when they experience excessive stretching force. This usually happens in case if the foot is turned inverted or inverts. Such circumstances arise when you place your foot awkwardly while walking, climbing down the stairs or running. Such invert planting of foot can also occur when you step on an uneven surface.
An ankle sprain is characterized by signs which may include pain in the ankle that may get aggravated with touch or by movement. Ankle sprain also usually causes swelling which is often severe. In some cases the condition may also lead to throbbing sensation of the associated ankle joint. The affected individual is able to see warmness at the injured region as well as redden area which happens due to increase blood supply to the injured spot. Usually the condition is quiet recognizable. However if you are uncertain about ankle pain, consult a physician immediately.
Your doctor will thoroughly examine your ankle as well as the severity of the pain. He may also evaluate the range of motion that causes pain. Your doctor will also try to rule out whether there is any serious injury to the ankle or a fracture. Health care experts will also try to determine whether there is any nerve damage or injuries to the arteries. Achilles tendon is also often checked to detect any possible rupture. The patient is often suggested to undergo x-ray imaging diagnosis which will help in conforming possibilities of fracture.
Usually mild to moderate form of ankle sprain gets cured on their own. They may need insignificant treatment or no treatment at all. Such conditions may not cause serious complications and affected individual may recover completely. However you should obviously care for your injury, prevent it from aggravating and focus on healing. There are several suggestions for people who are suffering from ankle sprain.
First and foremost, the affected individual is asked to avoid exerting pressure on the injured ankle, he is advised to rest and prevent aggravation of the condition which would promote healing. Some people are suggested to wear splints or braces which will prevent pressure on the ankle. If splints and braces are not considerably helpful for mobility, you may have to take support of crutches which will keep your weight off the injured ankle and allow you to move though not so efficiently. One of the effective home remedy is applying ice packs. This would help you reducing inflammation as well as swelling of the injured ankle. Doctors may also suggest you taking anti-inflammatory drugs to elevate pain and swelling.
These efforts can work well and can be complemented with physical therapy for better results. However if you experience ankle pain, consult your doctor surely as he will help you to overcome the condition and deal with its symptoms effectively.