What are Foot and Ankle Sprains?


Foot and ankle sprains manifest when the ligaments, resilient bands of tissue linking bones to joints, undergo twisting, rolling, or stretching. Despite their robustness, ligaments can sustain injuries due to trauma or prolonged strain. Prompt attention to sprains from Equinox Foot and Ankle is crucial, as early intervention minimizes the risk of complications.

Symptoms of Foot and Ankle Sprains:
Symptoms indicative of foot and ankle sprains encompass:

• Pain

• Swelling

• Bruising

• Tenderness

• Difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot or ankle

• Impaired mobility during walking, running, or exercising

Additionally, depending on the severity of the sprain, individuals may encounter ankle instability or sensations of crunching and popping.

Individuals at risk for Foot and Ankle Injuries?


Individuals across all demographics can be susceptible to foot and ankle sprains, but certain factors heighten this risk:

• Participation in sports activities

• Occupation involving strenuous tasks

• Navigation of uneven terrains during walking or running

• Maintenance of inadequate physical fitness levels

Moreover, wearing tight or unsupportive footwear exacerbates the likelihood of sustaining a foot or ankle sprain.

Diagnosis of Foot and Ankle Sprains:


To effectively diagnose a foot or ankle sprain, your Equinox Foot and Ankle specialist employs a comprehensive approach. This typically involves:

Reviewing your medical history to understand previous injuries or conditions.

Conducting a thorough physical examination, focusing on the lower leg, ankle, and foot to observe for signs such as bruising, swelling, or redness, as well as assessing muscle strength and range of motion.

In addition to the physical examination, your provider may also order diagnostic imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound. These imaging modalities are instrumental in evaluating the integrity of ligaments, tendons, bones, and joints, providing crucial insights into the extent of the injury.

Treatment of Foot and Ankle Sprains:


Treatment for foot and ankle sprains is tailored to individual circumstances, considering factors like the injury's severity and impact on daily activities. Your Equinox Foot and Ankle specialist may advise conservative approaches, such as:

• Resting the affected area

• Applying ice

• Utilizing compression techniques

• Elevating the injured limb

• Engaging in physical therapy sessions

• Using supportive bracing

• Taking anti-inflammatory medications

In cases of severe sprains or significant ankle instability, surgical intervention may be recommended. Surgical procedures aim to repair ligaments that fail to heal adequately or reconstruct damaged ligaments using healthy tissue.