Ankle Sprain Specialist
-
- Tweet
David M. Bloome, MD
Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Surgeon located in Houston, TX
If you’ve rolled an ankle during a run or while playing sports, you know it can put a damper on your plans for a few weeks. However, with proper care and plenty of rest, you can cut down on your recovery time and get back on your feet in short order. Dr. David M. Bloome in Houston can examine your sprain to make sure it isn’t something more serious, and provide you with the recovery advice you need to spring back fast. Call Dr. Bloome to schedule a consultation or book your appointment online.
Ankle Sprain Q & A
What is an ankle sprain?
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments supporting your ankle stretch beyond their normal limits, ultimately tearing. In most cases, the symptoms of an ankle sprain are similar to an ankle fracture, so it’s important you speak with Dr. Bloome if you’ve injured your ankle.
What are the symptoms of an ankle sprain?
You might have a sprained ankle if you experience at least one of the following symptoms:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Pain or tenderness
- Limping or instability of the ankle
- A “popping” sensation when the injury occurs
Who is at risk for an ankle sprain?
Ankle sprains are a fairly common injury that you can experience during a variety of activities. Most typical causes of sprains include:
- Walking on an uneven surface
- Falling or landing incorrectly on your foot
- Sports that involve frequent running and pivoting
- Accidents or injuries to the ankle
How are ankle sprains treated?
Most ankle sprains don’t require serious medical intervention. Nonetheless, you should call Dr. Bloome if you experience a sprain you think might be serious. For most types of sprains, Dr. Bloome advises a three-phase approach to recovery:
Rest
You should cease most physical activities and reduce swelling as much as possible. This typically includes the RICE method, short for rest, ice, compression, and elevation.
Restoration
After your swelling has gone down, Dr. Bloome assigns a series of ankle exercises that help restore mobility and strength to the region.
Maintenance
Before you can return to your regular physical activities, you’ll need to ease yourself in with maintenance exercises and a gradual increase in physical activity.
More serious sprains rarely require surgery. Dr. Bloome suggests surgical intervention only when nonsurgical approaches fail to produce results. If your sprain does require surgery, Dr. Bloome performs a minimally invasive arthroscopic procedure to restore function to your ankle.
How long is ankle sprain recovery?
With proper treatment, most ankle sprains quickly heal on their own. In fact, minor sprains often take no more than two weeks for complete recovery. More serious ankle sprains can take longer to heal, from 6-12 weeks.
If you’ve injured your ankle and need to make sure it isn’t something more serious, call the offices of David M. Bloome, MD, in Houston or make your appointment online today.
