Understanding Ankle Sprains: Causes, Severity, and Ligament Involvement
Ankle Sprain is an injury to one or more ligaments in the ankle, usually on the outside of the ankle. The severity of an ankle sprain depends on whether. The ligament(s) is stretched, partially torn, or completely torn, as well as on the number of ligaments involved.
There are four reasons why an ankle sprain should be promptly evaluated and treated by a foot and ankle surgeon:
- First, an untreated ankle sprain may lead to chronic ankle instability, a condition marked by persistent discomfort. You may also develop weakness in the leg or difficulties walking on uneven surfaces.
- Second, you may have suffered a more severe ankle injury along with the sprain. This might include a serious bone fracture or torn ligaments in the leg that can lead to troubling complications if it goes untreated.
- Third, an ankle sprain may be accompanied by a foot injury that causes discomfort but has gone unnoticed thus far.
- Fourth, rehabilitation of a sprained ankle needs to begin right away to prevent avoidable long term problems.
Dr. Di Nucci will examine the area, which may involve ordering X-Rays, an MRI study or a CT scan to help determine the severity of the injury.
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