What are 3 Signs You May Have an Ankle Sprain?
A jog through beautiful downtown Orlando may be your favorite way to stay active. However, it is important to be safe in order to prevent an uncomfortable ankle sprain.
Simply put, an ankle sprain is the stretching and even tearing of ligaments, which can be the result of a rapid shift in movement. Although a common injury, accounting for 85% of ankle injuries, a sprain should be treated to prevent further damage like lifelong joint pain. Before you can treat the sprain, you need to be able to identify it. The following are some signs that that fall may have led to a sprain.
1.) Immediate Swelling
Generally, a sprain results in instant pain and your ankle almost immediately swells. The ankle is usually tender to the touch and it may be difficult to move it. You can gauge the severity of the sprain based on the amount of pain and swelling you experience.
2.) Hearing or Feeling a “Pop”
Ankle sprains are the result of stretching and even tearing ligaments. Typically, they are caused by a rapid shift in movement.
When it happens, you usually know because you will hear or even feel the ligament tear along with a pop or snap. This will cause extreme pain and may prevent you from being able to walk or put weight on your foot.
3.) Discoloration of the Skin
In addition to immediate swelling, you may also notice bruising that appears almost instantly. A redness or warmth is also possible and is the result of increased blood flow to the injured area.
Treating a Sprain
So you identified you have a sprain – now what? Here are some treatment options you should consider when experiencing a sprain:
- RICE Method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)
- Protect the joint with a brace
- Keep iced for 48 to 72 hours to reduce swelling
- Take an Anti-Inflammatory to reduce pain
- Visit a professional if symptoms do not improve within 72 hours
