Ankle Sprains — When Do You Need to See A Physiotherapist?
Everyone experiences injuries at some point in their life, whether they are severe or mild. In Canada, over 4 million people suffer from injuries severe enough to limit their normal activities each year. The most common injury among people aged 12 to 19 occurred on their feet and ankles, such as sprained and strains.
Usually, an ankle injury does not require professional medical attention and can be treated at home. One of the most common treatments for ankle sprains is RICE, Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Sometimes people also take over-the-counter pain medication as even the most benign ankle injury can be quite painful at first.
However, sometimes an ankle sprain can require professional medical treatment. Here are some common signs which indicate it might be time to visit a sports injury specialist:
Severe Pain and Swelling
Ankle sprains can be quite painful, especially at first. However, the pain usually subsides to mild discomfort in a couple of days. However, if you are experiencing severe pain and swelling after an ankle injury, it might indicate a serious issue such as broken bone or damage to a ligament. Physiotherapists are trained to assess and treat these types of injuries; using evidence in the field to help you recover to your fullest.
Signs of Possible Infection
Sometimes minor internal damage can lead to infection after an ankle sprain. If you start experiencing a fever greater than 37.8 C, which is accompanied by warmth, redness, and tenderness around your ankle, it could indicate a possible infection.
Trouble Walking
If you have sprained your ankle, you will have trouble waking properly for a few days. However, if you continue to experience a limited range of mobility in the affected ankle. Feel a sharp pain in one spot when walking, this could mean there is more serious damage inside the muscle or to the bone. This will require an X-Ray to diagnose the extent of damage and professional treatment to recover effectively.
Persistent Pain
The pain from ankle sprains usually goes away after a week. Range of motion is fully restored within a couple of weeks. However, if you continue to experience pain past the one-week mark even with proper care and RICE treatment, it could indicate a more severe injury that requires professional treatment.
If you sprained your ankle and are experiencing severe pain, it is always better to consult an experienced sports injury specialist to assess the injury and prescribe the proper treatment. At Motion Science Physiotherapy Clinic, we provide expert diagnoses and assessments of various musculoskeletal conditions, including ankle sprains, repetitive stress injuries, and muscular pains.
Book an appointment today and take the first step on the road to complete recovery.