Ankle Injuries

Runs and walks are a great way to get out of the house and get active during quarantine. Listening to your body is crucial, more specifically listening to your feet! This change in activity can put you at risk for foot and ankle injuries. There are a few different types of injuries that you may be wondering about, and we break down each one.

Ankle Sprain

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments in your ankle have been stretched or torn and often show with swelling of the affected ankle. The ligaments in your ankle make sure that the joint stays in place, as opposed to moving too far to either side. Ankle sprains tend to be minor and often can be treated with rest, ice, and elevation, however sprains can be more severe in which case it’s important to see a podiatrist for treatment. If an ankle sprain goes untreated it can weaken the ankle overtime and you’re more likely to experience more sprains in the future.High Ankle Sprains deal specifically with the Syndesmotic ligament, which runs from the knee to the ankle. This sprain is one of the more common sprains seen and it’s important to seen your podiatrist if you believe you have this type on injury. One way to treat this injury in the Tightrope procedure, which you can learn more about here.

Ankle Fractures:

Many people may group ankle sprains and fractures together, however they are not the same. An ankle fracture is when there is either a partial or complete break in the bone, as opposed to sprain that injures the ligaments. It is possible to experience both of these injuries at the same time, and many patients will incorrectly self-diagnose. It’s important to see your podiatrist if you’re experiencing pain, in order to be correctly diagnosed and have the correct plan of treatment.

Stress Fractures:

Stress fractures occur in the ankle when there is a change of activity and repetitive force is put on the feet. This can create small, microscopic damage to the bones of the feet and occurs because the bones and muscles don’t have the proper amount of time to heal between activities or exercise. Running longer distances or jumping up and down are a few types of activities that will put repetitive weight on the feet and possibly lead to a stress fracture.

Though it is important to stay active during quarantine, it is also important to stay vigilant with your foot health. Make sure to take note if you are feeling pain, and see your podiatrist for treatment. Gulf South Foot & Ankle is still taking patients, so skip the hospital and let us help you with your foot pain! You can click here to contact us.