Ankle sprainS SPECIALIST IN HOUSTON TX AND NEARBY AREAS
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HOW IS
AN ankle sprain caused?
An ankle sprain is a common injury that occurs when the ligaments in the ankle are stretched or torn. It is often caused by sudden twisting or rolling movements of the foot, leading to excessive strain on the ligaments. An ankle sprain typically occurs when there is excessive stretching or tearing of the ligaments that hold the bones together in the ankle joint. The most commonly affected ligaments are the lateral ligaments, which include the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL), and the posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL).
Our podiatrist at Vital Podiatry can help relieve the pain and discomfort caused by ankle sprain. Ankle sprains can vary in severity, ranging from mild stretching of the ligaments (Grade I) to partial tearing (Grade II) or complete tearing (Grade III), we at Vital Podiatry can offer you the optimal recovery that will allow you to regain your ankle mobility in no time.
Types of ankle sprains
Inversion
injury
The most common mechanism of an ankle sprain is an inversion injury, where the foot rolls inward, causing strain or damage. This can lead to stretching or tearing of the ATFL (anterior talofibular ligament), located on the outside of the ankle, resulting in significant pain and joint instability.
High ankle
sprain
A less common type of injury is a high ankle sprain, which involves damage to the syndesmotic ligaments. These important ligaments, including the anterior tibiofibular ligament and interosseous ligament, connect the tibia and fibula bones and provide essential stability to the ankle joint.
Ligament
damage
When the ankle rolls inward, it places excessive stress on the lateral ligaments, resulting in varying degrees of ligament damage. In mild sprains, the ligaments may be stretched (Grade I sprain). In moderate sprains, the ligaments may partially tear (Grade II sprain). In severe sprains, the ligaments can completely tear (Grade III sprain).
Bone involvement
In some cases, an ankle sprain can also involve fractures or bone injuries. For instance, the twisting force can result in an avulsion fracture, where a piece of bone is pulled away with the ligament, or even a more serious bone break through the bone structure itself, requiring immediate medical attention.
Ligament
healing
Following an ankle sprain, the body initiates a natural healing process. The damaged ligaments undergo inflammation, followed by the formation of scar tissue, eventually restoring some of their previous strength and functional capacity over time, depending on the severity.
Diagnosis
When diagnosing ankle sprains, our podiatrist will typically begin by conducting a comprehensive examination and assessing the patient’s medical history. They will inquire about the circumstances of the injury, any symptoms experienced, and the level of pain or discomfort. Our specialist will then perform a physical examination of the ankle, looking for signs of swelling, bruising, tenderness, and instability. To further evaluate the severity of the ankle sprain and rule out any associated fractures or ligament tears, our podiatrist may order imaging tests such as medical x-rays, MRI scans, or ultrasounds. These diagnostic tools help visualize the bones, ligaments, and soft tissues, providing a more detailed understanding of the injury.
Surgical solutions – advanced treatments for severe ankle sprains IN HOUSTON TX
For severe ankle sprains that involve significant ligament damage or associated fractures, surgical intervention may be required as an advanced treatment option. The goal of surgery is to restore stability, promote proper healing, and prevent long-term complications. Surgical solutions for severe ankle sprains may include ligament repair or reconstruction, bone realignment or fixation, or a combination of both. During the procedure, an experienced surgeon meticulously repairs the torn ligaments, removes loose fragments or damaged tissue, and restores anatomical alignment. Post-surgery, a period of immobilization, followed by physical therapy, is typically prescribed to our patients to aid in the recovery process and regain strength, function, and range of motion in the ankle joint.
ANKLE SPRAIN Treatment IN HOUSTON TX
Based on the diagnosis, our podiatrist will develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to every individual patient and their injury. Treatment options for ankle sprains may include, the R.I.C.E therapy (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation); these are the initial measures to reduce swelling, relieve pain, and promote healing. Another effective treatment is
Immobilization. Depending on the severity of the sprain, our podiatrist may recommend the use of a splint, brace, or walking boot to stabilize the ankle and protect it from further injury.
Alternatively, medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or pain relievers may be prescribed to manage pain and inflammation. These medications work best alongside physical therapy. Our doctors at Vital Podiatry offer great assistance and specialists who can cater to any physical therapy a patient may require. A physical therapist will guide them through exercises and rehabilitation programs to restore strength, flexibility, and stability to the ankle.
Whenever there is more external support required our podiatrist may recommend using assistive devices such as crutches or a cane to offload weight and support mobility during the healing process. Lastly, footwear also plays a major role in adequate ankle support.
Throughout the treatment process, the podiatrist will monitor the patient’s progress, adjust the treatment plan as needed, and provide guidance on preventing future ankle sprains. The goal is to facilitate healing, restore function, and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Fast and Efficient FOOT SPECIALIST IN HOUSTON TX
Vital Podiatry is dedicated to providing you with treatment options that are fast and easy so you can be back on your feet in no time.
Simply call us for a quick consultation over the phone or book an appointment to see a doctor in person. Our staff is always available on the phone, and we also book urgent appointments.
The doctor will conduct all relevant tests to accurately diagnose your foot condition. Since we offer in-clinic X-rays and vascular studies, it makes getting the results quicker and easier.
Depending on your diagnosis, our team will come up with a custom treatment plan tailored to your requirements and lifestyle. We work based on a holistic approach and make a treatment plan accordingly.
Throughout the treatment, our doctors will monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed. This ensures that you get the best approach to healing your foot condition.
Don’t let foot pain hold you back any longer. Schedule your appointment with Vital Podiatry today.
We are very proud of the treatment we have given to our patients. Through the years, we have received many positive reviews. We implore you to browse through them to learn more about our care and services.
Vital Podiatry did a wonderful job on diagnosing my issues in timely fashion. I was quickly taken in as a new patient and treated with respect.
Vital Podiatry is very understanding and takes the time to explain all remedies and procedures. The front office staff and assistants are extremely nice and personable.
The culture at every level is outstanding. From the excellent bedside manner during the physical examination to the post-operative care, the nursing care was amazing.
INSURANCE LIST
At Vital Podiatry, we believe that everyone deserves to have healthy and pain-free feet, which is why we accept a wide range of insurance plans to ensure our patients can receive the treatment they need without any financial burden.
See Your Podiatrist Today IN HOUSTON!
If you’re suffering from foot or ankle pain, don’t wait any longer to get the treatment you need. Book an appointment with Vital Podiatry today and take the first step toward getting the relief you need. At our podiatry practice, we offer a range of effective treatment options to help relieve your pain and improve your quality of life. Our experienced team of podiatrists develops a personalized treatment plan for your foot that is suited to your needs and goals.