Some Reasons for Facing Ankle Pain

Ankle injuries are common. If you have played sports then there is a good chance you have twisted, strained or sprained your ankle. And maybe you’ve done all of the three. In this article you will read about some of the ways to avoid and treat these types of ailments and thus not have to experience the accompanying pain, which can be intense.

Stopping an injury from occurring is ideal. Braces and wraps can help prevent the leg from turning or rolling and thereby prevent damage to ligaments, tendons, muscles and bones. There are braces that have built in air cushions for greater protection. Taping can also prevent rolling, turning and twisting injuries.

If you fail to take these preventive measures or if you experience a hurt even after taking these precautions, rest can be the best medicine. With this kind of damage you want to avoid putting any pressure on the affected area. Stay off your feet as much as possible and elevate the compromised foot. Use crutches when walking—if you must walk. Using crutches will take the weight off the foot and limit pain and further complications.

When an injury causes swelling, ice works well to reduce the expanding tissue and get things back to normal. Actually, it’s a good idea to grab the ice as soon as the injury occurs so it can start working immediately to limit swelling. Compression wraps and bandages can prove beneficial in this area as well. Also, medicines such as Advil and Motrin can be taken to reduce swelling and pain.

When children experience this condition, doctors will often take X-rays to check for any damage in the growth plates that support bones.

Strains and sprains, which involve the stretching or tearing of ligaments, are more severe than twists and may need further treatment when they are moderate to severe.