Sprained Ankles: The Ouch is Readily Noticed

causes and treatment for sprained ankles Nearly 25 thousand ankle sprains occur and get treated every year in the US alone. Sprains are the most often treated musculoskeletal injury and come in three grades of severity. Although sprains are common to the world of sports, they can happen to anyone at any time. A simple excessive twisting force can occur when a person missteps or encounters uneven terrain.

The ankle is comprised of three bones coming together. These bones are connected to muscle by tough cords called tendons. Ligaments hold bones together and have a limited ability to give, which allows them to give to a certain extent, and then resume their normal position. When sufficient force is placed on the ligaments they may be stretched beyond their endurance. This stretching or tearing of the ligament is called a sprain. Sprains most often happen to the outer part of the ankle. This injury can happen in several different ways:

When running, stepping up or down or simply planting the foot wrong.
Stepping on an irregular surface.
A traumatic injury such as what may be suffered during a basketball game with one player stepping on another.

The body’s response to a tissue injury like a sprain is fluid build-up which causes swelling, pain which may worsen when the ankle is moved or manipulated in a certain manner or when weight bearing. The area may also appear red and feel warm to the touch due to increased circulation. Heightened blood flow is part of the healing process.

Sprains, although painful, do not always mean a trip to the doctor. Sometimes pain can be managed by:

Rest
Ice
Compression
Elevation

If swelling is reduced with over-the-counter medication, such as Ibuprofen, then continue to monitor the ankle and begin gentle walking to regain mobility and strength. If pain is severe and you are unable to walk, see the podiatrists at Dallas Podiatry Works. Drs. Joel Brook, Arroyo, and McClurkin can examine your foot and perform diagnostic tests necessary in order to determine if the injury is more than a sprain. Sometimes stress fractures occur, but are masked by the sprain. X-rays, CT scans and MRIs all can assist in his diagnosis.

If you have a sprained ankle, call Dallas Podiatry Works in Merit Drive Dallas at (972) 853-7100 or in Plano at (972) 943-3323. After a complete evaluation of your injury he can begin you on a program of physical therapy to reduce discomfort and build your muscle strength. In the most severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair torn ligaments, but our doctors will discuss the treatment option best suited to you.

The doctor has great “bedside manners” when talking to patients. Great staff and comfortable atmosphere.

Derrick W.

The staff at Dallas Podiatry Works could not have been more courteous, helpful, and professional in doing their job. They made me feel comfortable when I was there, which is certainly appreciated. They answered all the questions that I had and just made each visit the most pleasurable that it could be. I would highly recommend them to anyone needing this type of foot care.

Joseph B.

I would highly recommend Dr. Brook to anyone with foot problems–especially problems that stump other podiatrists. He really is very caring and very knowledgeable.

Jeannette H.

Dr. Joel Brook and the staff were nice and helpful. Though I was a new patient, I got right in as soon as they were open in my preferred location. They diagnosed the problem and provided medicines along with a perfect gel bandage so I could keep exercising while my toes healed. My toes already hurt less and look a little better each day. If I have future issues, I will be a repeat customer. Here’s hoping I don’t, but at least I know my feet are in good hands.

Meryl E.

I visited this office for an ingrown toe nail a few years ago. After seeing another doctor, who made it worse, he referred me to Dallas Podiatry Works. The doctor there was able to fix my problem. I’m not great with reviews, all I can tell you is that this doctor and staff will have you up and running or doing whatever it is you do in no time. You will be in great hands. You’d be a fool not to use this doctor. Now its time to visit him again for the other toe.

Google User

Been having bad ankle pains for 6 months was referred here and it was a great visit ladies in the front desk medical assistants and the Doctor were all very friendly and make you feel very comfortable.