How We Can Help Treat Your Ankle Sprain

How We Can Help Treat Your Ankle Sprain

Do you need to see a doctor if you sprained your ankle?

An ankle sprain is a common injury that often occurs when the joint is jerked out of place. While minor sprains can often be treated from the comfort of your own home you should visit our Indianapolis, IN, podiatrist Dr. Jeffrey Agricola if you are experiencing any of these symptoms:

  • A misshapen or deformed ankle
  • Extreme pain
  • Severe swelling
  • Unable to put weight on the foot or walk
  • Limited range of motion
  • Ankle that is tender to the touch

 

How should I treat an ankle sprain?

How you treat this injury will depend on how severe it is. Mild sprains can often be treated at home with rest and conservative care. Many people follow the RICE method, which stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. These things can reduce pain and swelling and help the joint heal faster.

Compression can include things such as soft ankle braces, which also provide the injured ankle with support and stabilization when you do have to move around. You may also choose to taken a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication to help ease pain. It’s important to rest as much as possible within the first 48 hours after the injury. If you don’t notice any of the symptoms above then the ankle may have healed.
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When should I see a podiatrist?

As we mentioned above, any severe symptoms warrant seeing our Indianapolis, IN, foot doctor to determine whether it’s a sprain or whether there is something else going on. Sometimes symptoms can overlap with other problems such as a fractured ankle, so seeing a doctor for care is the best way to make sure that any issues are taken care of.

Our podiatrist can also show you a variety of exercises and stretches that you can do throughout the day to reduce symptoms and improve range of motion. Those with more serious ankle sprains may require physical therapy or other more aggressive treatment options. Rarely is surgery necessary for treating an ankle sprain.

Prestige Podiatry in Carmel and Indianapolis, IN, is here to provide you with the care you need to get foot and ankle problems under control. If you think you’re dealing with an ankle sprain call our office today for an appointment.