Ankle Sprains | Optimal Wellness Center in Midvale
Understanding Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains are a common injury, often occurring when you roll, twist, or turn your ankle beyond its normal range of motion. This can overstretch or tear the ligaments that support the ankle, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. At Optimal Wellness Center in Midvale, we specialize in effective, personalized care for ankle sprains, helping you recover fully and avoid future injuries.
Symptoms of a Sprained Ankle
Recognizing the signs of a sprained ankle can help you get the appropriate treatment. Common symptoms include:
Pain: Sharp pain, especially when putting weight on the affected ankle.
Swelling: Visible swelling around the ankle joint, which may increase in the hours following the injury.
Bruising: Discoloration or tenderness in the area of injury.
Difficulty walking: Limited range of motion and discomfort while walking.
If you’ve experienced an ankle roll, twisted ankle, or any of the above symptoms, seek evaluation to confirm the severity of the injury and begin appropriate care.
Types of Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains vary in severity, commonly classified into three grades:
Grade 1 (Mild): Slight stretching or microscopic tears of the ligament fibers, with minor swelling.
Grade 2 (Moderate): Partial tearing of the ligament, causing more noticeable swelling and pain.
Grade 3 (Severe): Complete tear of the ligament, leading to significant swelling, bruising, and instability.
Causes of Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains usually happen due to:
Falling on an uneven surface.
Landing awkwardly after a jump.
Losing balance during movement.
Participating in activities with frequent ankle rolling, like basketball, tennis, or soccer.
Diagnosing a Sprained Ankle
At Optimal Wellness Center in Midvale, we begin by examining your ankle to determine the range of motion, pain level, and ligament damage. In some cases, we may use X-rays or other imaging to rule out fractures or more serious issues.
Treatment for Ankle Sprains
Our approach to ankle sprain recovery goes beyond the traditional RICE method. While we still incorporate aspects of Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation, we enhance recovery with targeted treatments to achieve the best possible results.
Here's how our specialized therapies aid in your recovery:
Chiropractic Care: Realigns the joints and relieves tension, promoting better ankle stability and range of motion.
Physical Therapy: Strengthens muscles around the ankle, restoring balance and preventing future injuries.
Shockwave Therapy: Stimulates blood flow and accelerates tissue healing, reducing pain and inflammation.
Massage Therapy: Eases muscle tension and enhances circulation, reducing stiffness and aiding in faster recovery.
Each treatment works together to support healing, alleviate pain, and restore ankle function, ensuring a holistic approach to your recovery.
When to Seek Twisted Ankle Treatment
While many mild ankle sprains heal on their own, persistent pain, swelling, or inability to bear weight could signal a more serious injury. Contact our team if:
Swelling and pain don’t improve after 48 hours.
You’re unable to put weight on the affected ankle.
You experience frequent ankle rolls or feel unstable when walking.
You want to get better as soon as possible and have an optimal recovery.
How Long Does It Take to Heal?
The recovery period depends on the sprain's severity:
Mild sprains may heal within two weeks.
Moderate sprains typically take four to six weeks.
Severe sprains may require six to twelve weeks and, in rare cases, surgery if chronic instability develops.
Preventing Future Ankle Sprains
At Optimal Wellness Center, we focus on not only treating ankle sprains but also on strengthening your ankle to prevent future injuries. Here are some preventative measures:
Strengthen your ankle muscles through targeted exercises.
Warm up and stretch before physical activities.
Stay mindful on uneven surfaces.
Wear supportive shoes that fit properly.
Our provider team can create a custom program to rebuild ankle strength, enhance stability, and reduce the risk of future sprains.
Why Choose Optimal Wellness Center in Midvale?
Optimal Wellness Center offers specialized care tailored to your needs, focusing on effective recovery and long-term health. Our Midvale team is dedicated to helping you get back on your feet, whether it’s for daily activities, work, or sports.
If you’re dealing with a sprained ankle or want to strengthen your ankle to prevent injuries, contact Optimal Wellness Center today to schedule a consultation.
