Our ankles carry the entire weight of everything we do. As strong as they can be, it does not take much to twist or bend them just a little too far. There are a lot of things that can happen to our feet, with an ankle sprain being the most common. Dr. Sara Bouraee, Dr. Jon Houseworth, Dr. Sun Byun, Dr. Daria Piotrowski, and Dr. Shruti Vyas of Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists, in Hampton and Williamsburg, VA, would like to discuss these in case you have concerns.
What is An Ankle Sprain?
Tough bands of tissue called ligaments help hold the ankle bones together. They help stabilize our joints. A sprain happens when the ligaments are forced beyond the range of motion of design and the bands stretch or tear.
What Causes An Ankle Sprain?
There are several things that can cause an ankle sprain. The most common include:
- Sports or athletics;
- Work, including housework;
- Slipping on a surface;
- Tripping over something; and/or
- A sudden change in direction.
How Do You Prevent An Ankle Sprain?
Many ankle sprains could have been avoided. If you know that you are going to be doing something physically exerting, be sure to wear proper ankle support
Be mindful of your movement and do not do anything to increase risk, such as walk on wet surfaces if avoidable.
Wear proper footwear for whatever it is that you are doing.
How Do You Treat An Ankle Sprain?
One of the most important things to do if an ankle is sprained is to rest. Ice and compression treatments help with the pain and the swelling. Be sure to keep your foot elevated.
If the sprain is severe enough, it may warrant a visit to the doctor. In some severe cases (especially tears), surgery may be required.
If you would like to speak with someone about an ankle injury, it is always best to play it safe. Dr. Sara Bouraee, Dr. Jon Houseworth, Dr. Sun Byun, Dr. Daria Piotrowski, and Dr. Shruti Vyas of Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists, in Hampton and Williamsburg, VA, have years of experience treating ankle sprains. Call for more information and to schedule an appointment today at (757) 224-7605 for the office in Hampton, VA, and (757) 220-3311 for the office in Williamsburg, VA.