Your Quick Guide About Ankle Injuries and Treatments

People often think of ankle injuries as a problem that affect athletes. However, they can happen to anyone, regardless of their age or fitness level. When left untreated, ankle pain will worsen, and it can seriously disrupt your lifestyle.

We will explore the most common types of ankle injuries and the treatment to alleviate the pain and stress.

What are the most common ankle injuries?

Ankle sprain

Ligaments are strong strips of connective tissue that stabilize the joint and prevent it from swaying too much. When a sprain happens, it means that one or more ligaments have been overstretched or torn. This occurs due to sudden twists or changes of direction.

Most sprains are not severe, but ignoring moderate or severe cases can lead to other ankle issues. Recurring sprains can even result in arthritis.

Ankle fractures

Broken ankles are painful and can lead to more complications if not treated properly. The area around the broken bone will swell up and limit mobility. Fractures are usually caused by sudden ankle twisting, overextending the joint, or severe and unexpected force.

Tendonitis

When a tendon, the thick fiber connecting muscles and bones, becomes irritated or inflamed, it can cause a tendonitis flare-up. Moving the joint becomes painful as the tendon is quite sensitive. While the exact cause of tendonitis is unknown, it's believed to occur due to excessive strain and overexertion. Diseases such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis may also trigger it.

Flatfoot

People suffering from flatfoot have a shallow arch. The most common symptom is foot pain, but the ankles will start to roll inward in some cases. This condition is called overpronation, and it's very painful. Some people with the condition over-compensate as they walk, leading to increased discomfort.

There are many different injuries, so it's essential to contact an experienced professional to alleviate the pain and find the proper treatment.

How will the healthcare provider identify the injury?

A trained healthcare professional will carefully examine the ankle to check for signs of swelling or trauma. When they suspect a serious injury, they might require an X-ray to assess the bones and soft tissue condition. However, ankle injuries are rarely this severe and often treatable through working with a skilled physiotherapist.

When should you visit a physiotherapist?

It's best to go to a physiotherapist when the joint starts feeling sensitive or swollen to prevent recurring injuries or prolonged pain. Physiotherapy consists of pain management practices that help people as they work to regain their joint mobility. Depending on the speed of the healing process, the physiotherapist will also know how to properly pace people and introduce additional exercises to improve their balance and strength.

Don't ignore the pain!

People's most common mistake when they experience pain or discomfort is ignoring the symptoms. This often leads to other health complications that require more aggressive and expensive treatment. Seeking professional help is the best way to quickly treat the issue and improve overall health and wellness.

A physiotherapist will help you not only heal your ankle but help avoid other health problems.