Staying healthy and active, while always crucial to your health, becomes more important and, unfortunately, often more difficult as you age. However, increasing or starting your exercise routine suddenly at any age could compromise your ankles and the connective tissues which hold the joints together. Learn about how to protect your ankles while staying active with Dr. Mukesh Bhakta, DPM at 
Prince William Foot and Ankle Center in Gainesville, VA.
Common Causes of Ankle Injuries
Ankle injuries can quickly affect your quality of life and make walking and standing difficult. These injuries often come from trauma to the bone, joint, or connective tissue. Something as simple as twisting your ankle while walking could result in an injury through overuse and abnormalities in the ankle itself often cause injury. Suddenly adding more aggressive exercises into your normal routine can also injure the ankle.
Preventing Ankle Injuries in Gainesville, VA
If you choose to up the difficulty of your exercise routine, do so gradually. For example, instead of doubling your normal route while running, add distance slowly over the course of several weeks to reach your goal. Additionally, make sure you wear the correct shoes for the activity you participate in. Shoes designed for running have different qualities and support systems than shoes for other sports, making your choice of shoes important in protecting your feet and ankles. Stretch before and after exercising and take care to stay hydrated.
Ankle Injury Treatment
Treatment for ankle injuries varies depending on the patient, their injury, and their lifestyle. Some injuries require only plenty of rest to allow the body’s natural healing abilities to take over. Icing the ankle several times a day and keeping it elevated can help reduce pain and bring down swelling. Over-the-counter medications can help calm pain, and orthotics like a brace or wrap can also help reduce swelling.
Your doctor may recommend prescription orthotics or medications to aid in the healing process. They may also recommend physical, laser, or hot/cold therapy. Some severe or chronic ankle injuries require surgery to correct the problem. Your doctor can help you determine which treatment is best for your ankle injury.
For more information on protecting yourself from ankle injuries, please contact Dr. Mukesh Bhakta, DPM at Prince William Foot and Ankle Center in Gainesville, VA. Call 703-753-3338 to schedule your foot and ankle examination today!
