When an ankle becomes sprained, it is painful and it can become impossible to walk properly at your normal speed. Some people unfortunately continue to walk on a sprained ankle, which could only make things worse. It’s important to consult a Olney, Kensington, Silver Spring and Clinton, MD podiatrist at Family Foot and Ankle Associates of Maryland as soon as possible to get help with pain 
caused by an ankle sprain.
What Causes a Sprained Ankle?
A sprained ankle is almost always caused by some sort of injury that happens during an athletic activity, whether it’s walking, sprinting or jumping. Sometimes, patients who wear very high heels can suffer sprains during falls. However, certain conditions may make a patient more prone to getting a sprain:
- a previous ankle injury
- weak muscles
- lack of conditioning and proper stretching before participating in a high-energy activity
- playing a sport, like tennis or basketball, that requires many sudden twists, turns and jumps
Healing a Sprained Ankle
There are a number of simple and non-invasive treatments for a sprained ankle that your Olney, Kensington, Silver Spring and Clinton podiatrist may discuss with you. They include:
- wearing a foot brace or orthotic insert
- compression bandages (common for athletes)
- ice therapy for swelling
- physical therapy
- ligament surgery in more serious cases
Don't Let It Slow You Down
Don't allow a sprained ankle to slow you down—especially if you play sports. Not only can it interrupt your routine, a sprained ankle could progress to other problems like arthritis or a fracture if it isn't properly and timely treated. Your podiatrist can also help you with prevention techniques, including stretching exercises to reduce the chance of sprains and aid the healing process.
Get Help ASAP
If you have pain in your ankle that may be due to a sprain, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist at Family Foot and Ankle Associates of Maryland in Olney, Kensington, Silver Spring and Clinton, MD. Call today!