The sprained ankle is a common injury, particularly among runners and other athletes. Because they are so common, sprained ankle injuries are often dismissed as being minor and unserious. Unfortunately, this means many sprained ankles go untreated, which can actually result in them worsening over time.
If you experience a sprained ankle injury, it is always judicious to have it checked out by a skilled podiatrist, who can recommend the best treatments to promote recovery and prevent re-injury. Patients in the Prosper, TX community entrust their sprained ankle care to RNV Podiatry. We are proud to provide comprehensive treatment options designed to restore you to full mobility as soon as possible.
What Exactly is an Ankle Sprain?
Sprained ankle injuries involve the stretching or tearing your ligaments, specifically the ligament that stabilizes your ankle and prevents it from making side-to-side motion. Sprained ankles can cause mild to moderate discomfort, but because they do not involve any broken bones, many patients mistakenly assume that their sprained ankle will resolve on its own. This heightens the risk of overuse, which can compromise recovery and cause deeper ankle problems.
Sprained ankle injuries can present a number of symptoms, the most common being physical discomfort, difficulty walking or placing weight on the foot, bruising, and a limited range of motion. These symptoms signal that it is time to seek care from RNV Podiatry, a trusted provider for patients throughout Prosper, TX.
Why Should You Consult a Podiatrist Immediately if You Have a Sprained Ankle?
All too often, patients seek professional care only after their ankle sprain injury has significantly worsened. Rather than seeking help right away, many patients continue to place weight on their ankles, resuming their normal physical activities as soon as they can bear it.
By not seeking care immediately or by discontinuing care prematurely, you may cause the ankle to become permanently weakened. In doing so, you also significantly raise the odds of a re-injury. For these reasons, it is vital to seek early intervention rather than waiting until the ankle sprain injury becomes unbearable.
Ankle Sprain Treatments
At RNV Podiatry, our ankle sprain treatments always begin with a diagnosis. Based on a physical examination and medical imaging, we will determine the severity of the injury and then recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Some of the most common ankle sprain injury treatments include:
Icing the Injury
The use of ice or cold compresses can reduce inflammation and promote an expedited healing process.
Elevation and Rest
Taking a few days to rest the ankle while simultaneously keeping it elevated can promote healthy blood flow and facilitate complete recovery.
Wearing a Medical Brace
The use of a brace helps to stabilize the ankle, preventing any unnatural movement that could cause pain or disrupt your recovery.
Undergoing Surgery
While ankle surgery is seldom required to treat a sprain, it may be an option to ensure rehabilitation from the most extreme injuries.
Meet Dr. Rachel N. Verville, DPM, PA
Dr. Rachel N. Verville is a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon who has performed more than 1,500 elective and traumatic surgeries. She is a trusted provider of foot care for patients in Prosper, TX and throughout the surrounding area.
Dr. Verville is passionate about working with all patients, especially athletes, and provides personalized care and robust patient education. Her goal is to get patients back to their regular activities as quickly and as safely as possible while also providing the tools they need to prevent re-injury.
Dr. Verville is an active member of the American Academy of Podiatric Practice Management, the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons, and the American Association for Women Podiatrists.
Sprained Your Ankle? Contact Us Immediately.
For ankle sprain treatment in Prosper, TX, do not wait to seek professional care. To make an appointment with RNV Podiatry, contact us online or by calling (214) 385-8822.
