Signs You May Have Sprained Your Ankle

Ouch, ouch, ouch! You were running, hit a patch of uneven pavement and twisted your ankle hard. You need medical attention from your podiatrist in Baltimore, MD, Dr. Edward Orman. You may have sprained your ankle, and while this is a common injury, don't ignore it. Take advantage of the skilled and compassionate care provided by the team at Honeygo Podiatry.

Signs of an ankle sprain

When sudden force twists your ankle, the ligaments and tendons which support your lower extremity may be stretched or even torn. This is a classic ankle sprain, giving you symptoms of:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Redness
• Ankle instability (wobbling from side to side)
• Inability to support your body weight
• Bruising
• Limitations in range of motion (the ankle feels stiff)

With any combination of these symptoms, contact your podiatrist in Baltimore, MD, right away. He'll give you immediate advice and a same-day appointment at Honeygo Podiatry if needed. At the office, Dr. Orman will visually inspect your foot and ankle and take X-rays to determine the exact nature of your ankle injury.

Treating an ankle sprain

The American Academy of Family Physicians says that acute ankle injuries number more than 2 million annually in the United States. Proper and immediate treatment helps avoid long-term disability.

For the simplest of ankle sprains, Dr. Orman recommends RICE:

• Rest
• Ice (20 minutes on and 20 minutes off) to reduce swelling
• Compression bandages to support and protect
• Elevation to reduce swelling

Additionally, some patients require crutches to avoid placing weight on the injured ankle for a pre-determined amount of time. Casting or wearing a lace-up boot provides extra support for a severe sprain, and surgery to repair torn connective tissue helps the most serious of injuries. Dr. Orman is board-certified in foot and ankle surgery; so you can trust his expertise. Whether you need surgery or not, exercise and physical therapy help strengthen sprained ankles and speed healing, too.

Preventing ankle sprains

Athletic or not, you owe it to yourself to stretch your lower extremities before you exercise. Additionally, stay in good condition. Avoid gaining excess weight, and if you begin a program of strenuous exercise, do so gradually. Wear well-supporting and well-fitting shoes that are in good condition. Finally, if you know your ankles tend to be weak, wear ankle supports, or ask Dr. Orman if shoe orthotics (inserts) would keep your ankles from rolling and twisting.

Whatever your need...

Podiatrist Dr. Edward Orman and his staff will help your feet and ankles stay at their best. For a routine podiatric exam, or if you have an urgent problem, please call Honeygo Podiatry in Baltimore, MD at (410) 529-4141.