Left fielder Brett Elbner from the Kansas City Royals has sprained his left ankle and was put on the 15 day disabled list earlier this month. Now, we hear people spraining an ankle or a wrist all the time. Many people have an idea about what a sprain is, but they don’t know what it truly is, or how to treat one.
What is a sprained ankle?
A sprained ankle is a very common injury, it is when one or more ligaments on the outer side of your ankle are stretched or are torn. Typically, this happens when the ankle is rolled inward, which is called an inversion sprain. In fact, an ankle sprain is so common, that an estimated 25,000 people a day sprain their ankle, of course to differing degrees of pain.
You’re most likely to sprain your ankle when your toes are one the ground and your heel is up (this is called plantar flexion). When your foot is in such a position, the ligaments in your ankle are now under tension, and this makes the susceptible to injury.
If the pain goes away very quickly, you can go on your merry way. However, if the pain persists, and the ankle swells, go see Dr. Forman, who will do an X-ray to determine the severity of the sprain and differentiate it from a fracture.
How to treat a sprained ankle?
Like most foot injuries, the best way to care for your injury is the “RICE” Method.
R: Rest your ankle. DO NOT walk on it!
I: Ice your ankle to keep the swelling down
C: Compression. This can control swelling as well the ice. This also supports your injury for a quicker recovery
E: Elevate. Get on your favorite Lazy Boy recliner and prop up your foot and recline!
By following these guidelines, you’ll be set on your way. But remember, if you think you sprain your ankle, and the pain does not go away, make an appointment with Dr. Forman as soon as possible.
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