If you participate in contact sports such as hockey, football, or rugby, you are more prone to get a high ankle sprain. A high ankle sprain causes excruciating pain, making walking, running, and even standing up difficult. Alamo Heights high ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that connect the tibia and fibula bones above the ankle joint are stretched. Fortunately, you can use simple, effective ways to treat a high ankle sprain can help you recover more quickly and get back to your normal activities.
Here are some effective methods you can try to treat a high sprained ankle.
Ice
One of the most effective ways to treat a high ankle sprain is with ice. Ice can help reduce swelling and inflammation, which are common symptoms of this type of injury. Wrap a cold pack or a bag of ice in a towel or cloth and place it on the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day. Just be sure to take breaks in between icing sessions to avoid damaging your skin.
Rest
If you have suffered a high ankle sprain, resting is vital to ensure healing. Avoid activities that put weight on the affected foot or ankle, giving your body time to heal. While it can be tempting to try to tough it out and keep going about your daily activities, doing so can slow down your recovery and make the injury worse. Instead, take some time to rest and allow your body to heal.
Elevation
Elevating your ankle can also help reduce swelling and inflammation, speeding up your recovery time. To do this, prop your ankle up on a pillow or cushion, so it is higher than your heart. Elevating your legs will help encourage blood flow and circulation, which can help reduce swelling and promote healing.
Physical therapy
Once your ankle has had some time to heal, physical therapy can be a great way to strengthen the affected area and prevent future injuries. Physical therapy can involve a variety of exercises and techniques designed to improve flexibility, mobility, and strength in your ankle and surrounding muscles. Your physical therapist will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan based on your needs and goals.
Use crutches
If you are having trouble putting weight on your affected ankle, crutches can be a helpful tool to help you get around. They can help take some of the pressure off your ankle and allow you to move around more comfortably while you are healing. Just be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions on how to use crutches safely and effectively.
Activity modification
If you have suffered a high ankle sprain, it is critical to modify your activity level to avoid aggravating your ankle. Avoid high-impact activities like running or jumping and take a break from activities that stress your ankle, like walking or standing for long periods. Consult your therapist if you need help developing a plan for modifying your activities to ensure you give your ankle the time and space it needs to heal powerful idea.
Call Sports Medicine Associates of San Antonio to book your appointment for treatment of a high ankle sprain ailovemusic.