Don’t Delay in Treating Ankle Sprains

Most of us, at one time or another, have twisted an ankle. Especially here in Monroe County with our icy winters, slippery sidewalks, driveways and curbs provide ample opportunity for this unwelcome injury. Sometimes, the signs that the ankle has been sprained are obvious: pain, swelling, bruising and difficulty bearing any weight on it at all, making it clear that the ligaments have been overstretched or possibly torn. In other cases, however, ankle sprain symptoms are not so cut and dry. They may be severe initially and then subside after a few hours. For some people, particularly those who have had multiple ankle sprains, there is no pain or swelling. They may just feel that their ankle is a bit wobbly or feels like it will give out.

Prompt Medical Attention a Must

Taking a “wait and see” approach can be the worst choice for your ankles. If you suspect even the possibility of an ankle sprain, you should make an appointment at Foot & Ankle Specialists, PC in Monroe as soon as you can. Delaying treatment may have serious consequences, some of which can have a long term affect on your foot and ankle health:

• It’s possible that a more serious injury, such as a fracture, may have occurred along with the sprain which will require different treatment to fix.
• Physical therapy and other rehabilitation treatments for a sprained ankle need to begin as soon as possible to ensure that the injury heals properly and completely. Every day that you delay lessens the chances of this happening.
• Ankle sprains that are left untreated can lead to weakened ankles. This means you are more likely to sprain your ankle again in the future and can also lead to conditions such as chronic ankle instability, where your ankle frequently gives out. This can eventually lead to weakness in your leg as well.
• Lastly, an examination for an ankle sprain may reveal an additional foot injury that can be an underlying cause of the sprain or other discomfort.

Our foot and ankle surgeons, Dr. Scott E. Hughes, Dr. Greg P. Vogt, Dr. Christine I. Tumele, and Dr. Matthew W.E. Lewin, will take the time to properly diagnose your ankle pain and determine the correct treatment for you. Call our office at 734-241-0200 or 734-856-8900 for an appointment.