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We take the time needed for a thorough examination to find the underlying cause of your pain.
Airrosti Providers use hands-on manual therapy to treat your specific ankle injury to reduce pain, increase mobility, and accelerate healing.
No surgery, injections, or prescription medication.
Patients have shorter recovery time with an average of 3.2 visits over 2 weeks.
Speed your recovery and keep your pain from returning.
She then walks you through four easy exercises to help with ankle mobility and foot stability. If you’re experiencing pain related to an ankle sprain, don’t hesitate to contact Airrosti. Our goal is to get you back on your feet and pain free as quickly as possible. (Read our disclaimer here.)
Still have questions or concerns about your ankle pain? Schedule a no-cost video chat with one of our Providers.
Ankle sprains and strains are among the most common injuries, often causing pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. While both injuries involve overstretching or tearing of the soft tissues around the ankle joint, they affect different structures and have distinct symptoms
Occur when the ligaments, which connect the bones of the ankle, are overstretched or torn.
Impact the muscles or tendons, which are the fibrous cords that connect muscles to bones.
Strained or sprained ankles are common injuries, often caused by sports, physical activities, or simply stepping on uneven surfaces. Most people experience a twisted ankle at some point, with pain and swelling being the most common signs of injury. A sprain affects the ankle ligaments, while a strain involves the muscles or tendons. These tissues protect the ankle by stabilizing bones and joints during movement.
Common causes include:
Risk Factors:
Ankle sprains typically occur when the ankle is rolled either inward or outward. An inversion sprain, where the ankle rolls inward, is the most common and causes pain along the outer side of the ankle.
In contrast, an eversion sprain happens when the ankle rolls outward, causing pain on the inner side. Eversion sprains may involve more serious injuries to the ligaments or tendons and should be evaluated by a doctor.
Ankle sprains are categorized by severity:
Ankle sprains and strains are often hard to distinguish, as both can result from physical activity and cause similar symptoms. However, one key difference is that ankle strains tend to cause muscle spasms in the affected area, while ankle sprains typically lead to visible bruising. If left untreated, both injuries can lead to long-term issues that may impact your quality of life.
Sprains can sometimes be mistaken for fractures (broken bones), which require an x-ray for proper diagnosis. If you’re unable to bear weight or notice significant swelling or deformity, it’s crucial to seek medical care to promote healing and keep the blood flowing to the injured area.
When a sprain occurs, blood vessels leak fluid into the surrounding tissue, causing swelling and ankle pain. The area becomes more sensitive, leading to throbbing pain when pressure is applied.
Increased blood flow results in warmth and redness, while a reduced range of motion and difficulty using the affected leg are common. In more severe sprains, you may be unable to bear weight on the foot and could hear a “pop” at the time of injury.
If You’re Suffering from an Injured Ankle, Don’t Wait.
Surgery is rarely necessary for an ankle sprain. Most sprains can be treated with conservative measures such as rest, physical therapy, Airrosti care, and bracing. However, if there is a severe injury, such as a complete ligament tear or repeated ankle instability after conservative treatment, surgery may be considered. A healthcare provider can determine the best treatment based on the severity of the sprain and the patient’s recovery progress.
Yes, it is generally safe to take medications for ankle sprain pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help reduce inflammation and manage discomfort. In more severe cases, a healthcare provider may recommend stronger medications. It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s guidance when taking any medication, especially if you have other health conditions or are on additional medications.
Yes, there are several self-care techniques and exercises that can help with an ankle sprain. Initially, rest, ice, and elevation can help reduce swelling and pain. Once the pain subsides, gentle range-of-motion and strengthening exercises can help restore mobility and prevent future sprains. Examples include ankle circles, towel stretches, and resistance band exercises. Physical therapy may be recommended to guide recovery and prevent long-term instability.
Yes, it’s important to limit activity after an ankle sprain to allow the injury to heal. Avoid high-impact activity, especially during the early stages of recovery. Using a brace may help to provide support and can also help protect the ankle. Gradually returning to physical activities is recommended, starting with low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling. Rushing back to high-impact activities before the ankle is fully healed can increase the risk of re-injury. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice on when it’s safe to resume full activity.
We offer both in-clinic and telehealth appointments to best suit your needs.
Reviewed by Casey Crisp, Doctor of Chiropractic
Disclaimer: Always consult with your doctor before starting any exercise program. If you experience any numbness, tingling or reproduction of your symptoms, please contact your doctor.
