A sprained ankle is an all-too-common injury that can toss a hitch in your step and a crimp in your giddy-up. At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, we understand that a sprain can be the most annoying injury of all. That is why our expert team of providers, with Dr. Kris A. DiNucci, DPM, FACFAS, will provide you with world-class treatment for Ankle Sprains so that you can be back into life as quickly and safely as possible.
Understanding Ankle Sprains
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched or torn. to support it are partial or completely torn. The bone injuries that may occur between the bone process and the sides of the ankle are also common. Such a twisting or rolling often occurs during athletic events and, in turn, can cause the ligaments supporting the ankle to become overextended or torn to some degree. This type of injury is very common among both athletes and non-athletic people. The severity varies and can be. The recovery time for a sprained ankle varies according to the severity of the injury, the treatment applied, and the way the injury is handled during recovery.
How Long Does a Sprained Ankle Take to Heal?
One of the common questions from our readers themselves is, “How long does it take for an ankle to heal from a sprain?” It depends on whether it is a mild sprain (Grade 1), which can recover within one or two weeks with proper care, or a moderate sprain (Grade 2), which might take three to four weeks. In the case of severe sprains (Grade 3), where the ligament is completely torn, it can take several months to heal and intensive treatment might be required.
Ankle Sprain Treatment at Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona
The Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona treats ankle sprains comprehensively in the setting of the patient. We emphasize decreased pain, healing, and future injury prevention in our treatment approach. Dr. Kris A. DiNucci and his team use a combination of proven techniques including:
RICE protocol: Rest, ice, compression, and elevation. These steps are intended to help reduce swelling and pain in the acute period after the injury.
An Ankle Brace for a Sprain: To what extent the patient is suffering from a sprain will determine the application of an ankle brace or splint for the immobilization of the joint to protect it during the healing process.
Physical Therapy: Practically indispensable in managing most ankle sprains is the practice of physical therapy. The therapist will take you through exercises to help you regain strength, flexibility, and balance in your ankle.
Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are usually prescribed to control the inflammation.
Advanced Treatments: When injuries are significant, or other methods have not brought significant relief, providers may consider doorstep advanced treatments that include, for example, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections or surgical options.
Recovery from Ankle Sprains
Recovery from ankle sprains involves much more than recovering from an injury. It involves a return to full function and strength so that the ankle becomes immune to re-sprain. Indeed, Dr. DiNucci emphasizes following a full ankle sprain recovery plan, which includes:
Progressively Increasing Activities: Activities should be gradually resumed after the injury. Our team will guide you step by step on when it will be safe to walk, run, or return to your athletic activities.
Strengthening: Strengthening the muscles around the ankle will give it more support and will help decrease the likelihood of it becoming sprained again.
Balance and Coordination Training: By improving balance and coordination. It is possible to reduce the risk of future sprains by gaining the ability to react to uneven surfaces or twists that may not be anticipated.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does a sprained ankle take to heal completely?
Depending on how severe the sprained ankle is, the time to heal varies. A mild sprain may fade within 1-2 weeks, whereas a more severe one could last for months. It is very important to do everything that you are instructed to achieve a full recovery.
2. Is it OK to walk on a sprained ankle?
Sprains should not be walked upon, at least until a few days have passed. You should remain off your ankle, though crutches can be used if needed. Dr. DiNucci can make recommendations for weight-bearing activities based on the extent of the injury.
3. Do I need an ankle brace for a sprain?
You may be recommended an ankle brace or splint, mainly to hold the ankle in position while healing. This helps to immobilize the joint and provide stability, minimizing the chance of further damage to it. The prescription of a brace depends on the severity of your sprain and your specific treatment plan.
4. What should I do if my ankle sprain isn’t healing?
If your ankle sprain isn’t getting better, or if you’re experiencing a lot of pain and swelling after weeks, that’s a sign you should seek professional treatment. Dr. DiNucci may want to order further imaging tests to rule out a more serious injury that might need to be treated.
5) How can I prevent ankle sprains in the future?
Reducing your potential for future ankle sprain means strong and supported ankles by following an exercise regimen to improve balance and coordination and wearing appropriate shoes. Dr. DiNucci and our team make it possible to design a treatment plan that lowers the potential for re-injury.
Ankle Brace and Splint for Sprain
Ankle braces and splints play a vital part in the treatment of sprained ankles. The devices adequately immobilize the joint to provide the requisite support during the process of healing of the ligaments. At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, we stock several types of ankle braces and splints, each for different types of sprains. Dr. DiNucci will advise on the best choice, depending on the extent of your injury and
what best suits your lifestyle.
Additional Therapies
Most ankle sprains heal without medical treatment, but advanced treatment may be necessary in some cases. At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, we offer several of these advanced modalities:
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP therapy uses injections of a concentration of the patient’s own platelets to help stimulate the natural healing process of damaged tendons and other soft tissue.
Surgery: In very severe or rare ligament tears or in cases of ankle instability, surgery may be indicated. Dr. Kris A. DiNucci is board-certified and highly experienced in repairing and reconstructing ankle ligaments.
Why Choose the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona?
Selecting the appropriate provider for your ankle sprain treatment is crucial to a successful outcome. At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, we offer:
Expertise: Dr. Kris A. DiNucci, DPM, FACFAS is a board-certified podiatrist with years of experience in the management of ankle injuries; thus. He always tries to provide personalized care specific to individual needs.
Caring Completely: Diagnosis, treatment, and recovery- Our team provides comprehensive care for ankle sprains to ensure everything about your injury is taken care of.
State-of-the-Art Facility: Our office is equipped with the most current technology and treatment options available and designed to deliver the highest standard of care.
Patient-Centered Approach: We believe in the concept of involving our patients in their care. Dr. DiNucci will take ample time to explain your condition and all proposed treatment options, thus ensuring that you will have the confidence of full understanding throughout the care process.
Contact Us for the Very Best in Ankle Sprain Treatment
Do not wait to get professional help if you believe that your ankle’s sprained. The sooner you can take care of the problem. The better the chances that these complications and issues will not become chronic. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Kris A. DiNucci, DPM, FACFAS, and start the healing journey. Reach out to the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona to start your treatment.
