Ankle sprains are one of the most common sports injuries suffered in Ireland. A sudden jolt or twist can overstretch and tear the supporting ligaments of the ankle joint. Early treatment of a sprained ankle has been shown to help to speed recovery and minimise the symptoms including ankle pain.

SYMPTOMS

The symptoms of an ankle sprain include:
•    Swelling – the ankle can swell in minutes or over several hours. Severe bruising may be noticed in the days after.
•    Pain in the ankle joint when trying to move it and when walking.

Acute Management 
Suggestions for Immediate Treatment of an Ankle Sprain Include:
•    Stop your activity.
•    Rest the injured joint.
•    Use ice packs every two hours, applied for 15 minutes.
•    Bandage the joint firmly with an elasticated bandage.
•    Raise the ankle above heart height whenever possible.
•    Avoid exercise, heat, alcohol and massage in the first 48 hours, as these can all exacerbate swelling.
RECURRING ANKLE SPRAINS

Some people suffer from recurring ankle sprains. This can be caused by a number of factors working in combination, including:
•    Ligament scarring and excess looseness, as a result of previous ankle sprains
•    Insufficient treatment or rehabilitation from previous sprains. This can lead to weak muscles surrounding the ankle joint. It can also cause decreased balance ability; this is called a proprioceptive deficit.
PROFESSIONAL HELP

If you are unable to take any weight on the foot at all, seek medical attention immediately. An x-ray may be needed to see whether a bone is broken. This x ray may be also be provided during a consultation with one of our chiropractic team at Gorey Family Chiropractic.
If the pain from a sprained ankle that you are managing yourself has not improved after a day or so, it is best to seek professional advice and consult with one our specialist chiropractic team or other specialist healthcare provider to get an accurate diagnosis of the injury and suggest the most appropriate treatment plan. Our Chiropractic team specialise in providing treatment, rehabilitation and support
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Chiropractic Treatments May Include:
•    Hands on therapy for damaged tissues
•    Exercise programs to improve mobility of the joint
•    Exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the ankle
•    Exercises to encourage balance training and improve the proprioceptive deficit which often is overlooked
•    Advice on taping and ankle braces for use during activity

PREVENTING ANKLE SPRAINS

Suggestions to prevent ankle sprains include:

•    Warming the ankle and lower extremity up thoroughly prior to exercise.
•  Consider ankle braces or tape, as directed by your Chiropractor.
•   Take care when exercising on uneven or wet ground, especially in the first few weeks after a sprain.
•    Consult one of our chiropractic team for ankle strengthening exercises and exercises to improve your ankle proprioception.

• Computerised Gait scanning may highlight abnormalities in your way of walking or running which can complicate or cause certain sports injuries. This can be addressed by introducing medical devices called orthotics/ insoles into your shoes if necessary.

GOREY FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC : A PROACTIVE MANAGEMENT APPROACH TO ANKLE SPRAIN

If you or a family member are concerned by a recent ankle sprain or suffer recurrent ankle pain we would be pleased to consult with you and following a thorough physical evaluation which may include x rays offer a professional opinion as to the best treatment options available to you.

For your convenience the clinical team at Gorey Family Chiropractic Clinic are covered by all major Irish health insurers and under the GAA Player Scheme.

Contact: info@chiropractor.ie or Tel: 053 94 83338 for an appointment.