0208 9776396
Kingston & Teddington Osteopathy
Kingston & Teddington Osteopathy
Many of us will experience the pain of a sprained ankle. Instant swelling, pain, bruising and difficulties walking.
It can take weeks to heal and for 20% of cases, there will be chronic ligament damage of the ankle. Weakening of these ligaments means that you are more likely to twist your ankle again, causing further damage.
As your Osteopaths, we can give you advice on how to rehabilitate your damaged ankle and how to help prevent further episodes.
Kind regards,
Acute Ankle Sprain
When you first sprain your ankle, it is important to Rest, Ice, and Elevate the foot. Swelling occurs immediately and there will be bruising so it is important to react promptly.
Avoid weight bearing and rest. It is unusual for the ligaments of the ankle to fully tear, but if you feel a ‘pop’ sensation when you twist the ankle, it is likely that there has been significant ligament damage.
Should the pain be severe, there is a possibility that you may have fractured your ankle and it is important that you get an x-ray.
When you sprain your ankle and there is significant ligament damage, it can lead to chronic ankle instability.
This is where you lose the outer stability of the ankle and it is easy to roll your foot inwards. This instability means that you are more likely to re-sprain your ankle.
People with chronic instability of the ankle often complain of ‘twisting’ their ankle when walking on uneven surfaces or playing sports. There can be tenderness on the outside of the ankle and recurring swelling or puffiness to the ankle.
First of all your Osteopath will examine your foot and ankle to determine the damage. You may be asked to try standing on your tip-toes to assess the stability of your ankle. Then, your Osteopath will move your foot and ankle whilst you lie down in order to see the range of movement.
For acute injury, your osteopath will be able to help the alignment of the foot and ankle and also help reduce inflammation with ultrasound therapy. Your foot may need strapping in order to help stabilise it during the initial healing process.
For chronic ankle instability, your Osteopath will determine which ligaments of the ankle have been damaged. They can advise the best exercises to encourage good ankle rehabilitation and also what footwear is best. They will also ascertain whether strapping is needed when engaging in sports to prevent further injury.
Each patient’s injury is different so any exercise plan will be tailored to your specific needs.
If you are suffering from Ankle or Foot Pain, please do not hesitate to get in touch. We would love to help.
You can email info@osteopathuk.co.uk or call 02089776396
Click the link for our website: www.osteopathuk.co.uk
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