Basketball Is a Common Cause of Ankle Sprains
You may have moved your basketball pick-up game inside because of wintry weather, but you're still committed to getting in that workout and improving your game. Good for you! Basketball is a fun sport that can burn calories, build endurance and muscle, improve your coordination and develop concentration skills.
Unfortunately, it's all too easy to injure your ankle while playing basketball. You're jumping and often landing off balance while twisting. Our ankles are designed to be flexible and allow a wide range of motion while bearing our body's weight, but a misstep or twisting fall can still bring on a painful injury.
Basketball Often Causes Ankle Sprains
An ankle sprain is a common injury in basketball and other activities that involve jumping or twisting, or even just stepping off a curb the wrong way. When landing incorrectly, the foot can turn under the leg and stretching the outside ligaments so that they tear or rupture.
In mild sprains, the ligaments have been only slightly stretched or torn. There is some swelling and pain but you are able to walk on the foot. Use the R.I.C.E. method to treat the ankle: Rest, Ice the ankle as quickly as possible after the injury, apply a Compression wrap and Elevate as often as you can. You should be able to return to normal activities within a few days.
When the ligaments are torn, the sprain is moderate with greater swelling, pain and bruising. Walking may be an issue. For first aid, apply R.I.C.E. treatments but come in to see us at Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A. for an examination. We'll take x-rays right here in our office to rule out any damage to the bone, and then apply a soft cast to protect the injured ligaments.
In a severe sprain, the ligaments may be torn and bones can be chipped or broken. There will be much swelling and pain and you will see bruising on both sides of the ankle. Treat first with R.I.C.E. methods but come see us as soon as possible for assessment. You may need to wear a stabilizing cast for 4-6 weeks.
Preventing Sprained Ankles
Can ankle sprains be prevented? Rehabilitation exercises can restore flexibility and strengthen the ankle and lower leg.
Recurring ankle sprains may become chronic. When this happens, chronic ankle instability may cause the ankle to give way when running or walking or even when just standing. Arthritis can set into the joint, which may become persistently painful.
Don't wait to have your sprained ankle treated. Seek help right away for quicker healing and to prevent chronic ankle instability.
We Are Experts in Treating Sports Injuries of All Kinds
Dr. James M. McKee, DPM, board certified podiatrist has the right experience to diagnose and treat ankle sprains as well as any other type of ankle or foot injury. Please call us at 410-224-4448 to make an appointment at our office in Annapolis, MD. You can also request an appointment at the website. Let us heal your ankle quickly to get you back in the game!