How to Recognize an Ankle Sprain
We have so many gyms and exercise classes here in Dallas. If you are looking for a Cross-Fit gym, there are several to choose from. Want to feel comfortable in a gym for only females? You certainly have options. There are many facilities if you are more of a “traditional” gym kind of guy or gal as well. No matter which Dallas gym you go to or exercise program you choose to follow, you are likely using your ankles for movement.
That being the case, it is important for you to recognize an ankle sprain sign or symptom when it occurs. This will allow you to know when it is time to step back to let the body heal. Doing so can greatly reduce your risk of developing a long-term, ankle instability condition.
An ankle sprain is an injury to the tough bands of tissue (ligaments) that surround and connect the bones of the leg to the foot. The injury typically happens when you accidentally twist or turn your ankle in an awkward manner, which can then stretch or tear the ligaments holding your ankle joints together.
Ankle ligaments have a specific range of motion and boundaries to allow them to keep the joint stabilized, while at the same time maintaining structure and balance. When those ligaments are pushed beyond these boundaries, it causes a sprain. This most commonly happens in ligaments found on the outside of the ankle rather than the inside.
You may have a sprained ankle if you notice the following symptoms:
- swelling
- tenderness
- bruising
- pain
- inability to put weight on the affected ankle
- skin discoloration
- stiffness
It is important to see us when you’re experiencing problems like these. We will evaluate the situation and determine whether the injury is a sprain or something else like a broken bone. If it is a sprain, we can evaluate the severity and create an appropriate treatment plan for you.
Being able to recognize an ankle sprain is certainly important, but perhaps more so is to have the condition corrected by a medical professional, like our foot doctors at Dallas Podiatry Works. Ankle sprains are fairly common and home care techniques can be quite effective, but we will make sure you heal completely to reduce your risk of long-term issues. Call us at 972.853.7100 for more information or help you schedule an appointment at either our Dallas or Plano, TX offices.