Ankle sprains are a very common injury that can affect anyone at any time. Unlike other podiatric injuries, which can be more likely in 
athletes or highly active people, even a sedentary person can sprain an ankle by simply walking down the street. A mild sprain can typically be treated at home with conservative methods like rest and icing. Moderate to severe ankle sprains can affect mobility and damage to the ligaments in the ankle and may increase the risk of ankle instability and arthritis in the future. The podiatrists at Family Foot and Ankle Associates of Maryland offer diagnosis and treatment for a range of foot and ankle injuries and conditions like ankle sprains and sports injuries.
Foot and Ankle Injury Treatment in Olney, Clinton, Kensington and Silver Spring, MD
Any motion that causes a sudden forceful twisting motion of the ankle can lead to a sprain. The most common causes of ankle sprains include:
- Falls
- Walking or working out on uneven surfaces
- Participating in sports like soccer, tennis, basketball, trail running, or football
The most common symptoms of an ankle sprain are:
- Bruising and swelling
- Pain and tenderness
- Limited range of motion/inability to move the ankle
- Difficulty putting weight on the ankle
- Ankle instability
Depending on the nature and severity of the sprain, symptoms can clear up within a week or two with conservative treatments like icing and rest. Moderate to severe strains that do not respond to conservative treatments can be treated by a podiatrist with medication, physical therapy, or an assistive device to support the ankle while it heals. In very rare cases, surgery may be recommended to repair damage to the ligaments or other soft tissue.
Find a Podiatrist in Olney, Clinton, Kensington and Silver Spring, MD
If you are suffering from an ankle sprain or other foot or ankle injury, contact Family Foot and Ankle Associates of Maryland by calling 301-924-5044 for Olney, 301-439-0300 for Silver Spring, 301-868-7670 for Clinton, and 301-942-8110 for Kensington to schedule an appointment today.