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Ankle Injury

Ankle Sprains and Fractures: Protect Your Ankles this Summer While Participating in Various Activities

With beautiful summer weather we all strive to be outside more often. Many of us choose to participate in various sports, or other active events such as running. However, with these activities there are injuries that still remain at bay. By protecting your feet and ankles you may be able to prevent injuries from occurring, but when a sprain or fracture occurs it is important to understand what is happening.

Each year, more than 25,000 people sprain their ankles on a daily basis. With so many people affected by sprained ankles every day, it is important to understand how to prevent and care for an ankle injury for faster recovery. Ankle sprains are caused by an unnatural twisting or force on the anklebones. Often, this will result in the stretching or tearing in one or more ligaments on the outside of the ankle. If your sprained ankle is not properly treated it may lead to chronic, recurring ankle problems in the future.

To prevent ankle sprains in the first place, it is imperative that correct shoes are worn for different activities. Good walking shoes, for instance, will provide comfort, stability and balance. The same goes for playing high-impact sports, such as basketball, which require enough support to endure the force and stress. Don’t wear any sport shoe beyond its useful life, and always wear hard-top shoes when operating a lawn mower or other grass-cutting equipment.

Treat Your Sprain with Conservative Treatment

Unfortunately, not all ankle sprains can be prevented. The first form of treatment for an ankle sprain comes from the individual. With a sprain you need rest, ice, compression and elevation (RICE). By applying this treatment right away, you may be able to reduce symptoms and prevent further injury to your ankle.

  • Rest the ankle. Walking may cause further injury.
  • Ice your ankle to reduce swelling.
  • Apply compression to the injury with a wrap (Don’t wrap too tightly).
  • Elevate the injured ankle. It should be raised slightly above the level of your heart.

An untreated ankle sprain may lead to chronic ankle instability, which is marked by persistent discomfort. Your ankle may even have moments where it simply “gives out.” Resting the weak ankle and giving it adequate time to fully recover is crucial.

Ankle Replacement Surgery

Beginning in Europe during the 1970’s, ankle replacement surgery was created. Since then, technology has continued to advance due to research and refinement throughout the world. If you suffer from end-stage osteoarthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, or rheumatoid arthritis, ankle replacement surgery has become an attractive treatment option.

Previously, an ankle arthrodesis or fusion, which restricts motion to the ankle joint, was the sole treatment option for many of these patients. There are currently four FDA approved total ankle joint implants: Agility, InBone, Salto-Talaris, and the STAR. Each implant offers distinct benefits and should be selected based on specific patient criteria. The procedure will typically take approximately two hours to complete, requiring general or spinal anesthesia.

For more information on ankle sprains, fractures and ankle replacement surgery or other foot and ankle problems contact Dr. Chokshi’s office in Easton, PA. Remember to properly care for your feet and ankles while active in order to protect them from damage.

Want know more about Ankle Injuries?

Call our Easton, PA Office at (610) 810-0800 today!