Treatment for Ankle Injuries

03 Jun Treatment for Ankle Injuries

Orthopedist in Wantagh

Ankle injuries can occur to anyone at any age. They are more commonly seen in athletes, although, you do not have to be an athlete to injure your ankle. We are constantly on our feet whether it be standing, walking, or running. One wrong movement can cause an injury. Our orthopedist in Wantagh, Dr. Stanislav Avshalumov offers several treatment options including minimally invasive surgery in order to get you back on your feet pain-free.

Types of Ankle Injuries

Strains, sprains, and fractures are the most common ankle injuries. All of these injuries deal with the tendons, ligaments, and bones in the ankle.  The ankle consists of three bones that meet; these bones are the tibia and fibula of the lower leg and the talus of the foot. They are held together at the ankle joint by ligaments. Tendons connect muscles to the bones which are responsible for making the ankle and foot move, as well as maintaining joint stability.

•      Strains. This is when there is damage done to the muscles and tendons surrounding the ankle. The peroneal tendons are the two tendons that are frequently strained. These tendons aid in stabilizing and protecting the ankle.
•      Sprains. This is when there is damage done to the ligaments caused by over-stretching beyond their normal range of motion. Sprains range from minor tears in the fibers to complete tears.
•      Fractures. This occurs when there is a break in one or more of the ankle bones.

Symptoms

Symptoms do differ depending on certain injuries however, there are many symptoms that are common between all. These include:

•      Swelling
•      Bruising
•      Pain and/or discomfort
•      Tenderness
•      Stiffness

If you experience any of these symptoms or problems with the ankle, it is important to consult with a medical professional. Our orthopedist in Wantagh can help determine what type of ankle injury you may have and properly treat it.

Treatment for Ankle Injuries

After experiencing an ankle injury, it is important to remain off of the ankle and to not apply pressure. An easy way to remember first aid for ankle injuries is with R.I.C.E.:

•      Rest. Rest the ankle and refrain from applying pressure.
•      Ice. Apply ice to the ankle to reduce the swelling and add a numbing sensation for the pain.
•      Compression. Wrapping the injured ankle with an elastic bandage helps to maintain the ankle to be immobile and supported.
•      Elevation. Keeping the injured ankle elevated to at least heart-level to reduce swelling and pain.

Depending on the severity of the injury, surgery may also be a treatment option. Our orthopedist in Wantagh may perform surgery on the ankle to repair the damaged tendon and oftentimes to repair the supporting structures of the foot.

The ankle is capable of sustaining many types of injuries, therefore, it is best to consult with our orthopedist in Wantagh if you are experiencing any ankle swelling, pain, or discomfort before it worsens. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!