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Minor Ankle Injuries
Minor Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle issues bring millions of Americans into their local podiatrist’s office each year. Complaining of pain, stiffness, swelling or various deformities, many of these patients are diagnosed and treated for minor foot conditions, such as bunions, corns, flat feet, athlete’s foot, warts, or ingrown nails.
Minor ankle injuries are common and can range from simple strains to mild sprains. These injuries typically occur due to twisting, rolling, or overstretching of the ankle joint. Some of the common minor ankle injuries include:
- Ankle Sprain: This is the most common minor ankle injury. It occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn. Ankle sprains are graded on a scale from mild to severe based on the extent of ligament damage.
- Ankle Strain: Ankle strains involve the stretching or tearing of muscles or tendons around the ankle. These can occur due to overuse, sudden movements, or excessive stress on the muscles and tendons.
- Ankle Contusion: Ankle contusions refer to bruises caused by direct impact to the ankle, such as a blow or a collision. They can lead to localized pain, swelling, and discoloration.
- Ankle Tendinitis: Tendinitis occurs when the tendons around the ankle become inflamed or irritated due to repetitive stress or overuse. It can cause pain, swelling, and limited range of motion.
- Achilles Tendon Strain: This occurs when the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, is stretched or torn. It often results from sudden, forceful movements.
- Peroneal Tendonitis: Peroneal tendons run along the outside of the ankle and can become inflamed or irritated due to overuse or repetitive stress, leading to pain and swelling.
Treatment for minor ankle injuries usually involves the R.I.C.E. protocol:
- Rest: Avoid putting weight on the injured ankle to allow it to heal.
- Ice: Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every 1-2 hours to reduce swelling and pain.
- Compression: Use an elastic bandage to provide gentle compression to the injured area, which can help reduce swelling.
- Elevation: Keep the injured ankle elevated above the level of the heart whenever possible to further reduce swelling.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can also help manage pain and inflammation.
Contact our podiatrists in Chicago at 773-205-0106 for best appropriate treatment recommendations, including physical therapy if necessary and for the recommended pain relievers dosage.
