A high ankle sprain occurs when your high ankle ligaments suffer a mild or severe tear or destruction. High ankle ligaments, also referred to as syndesmosis, are found above your ankles. The ligaments in your ankles, comprising numerous fibers, connect the bones in your feet and legs. These ligaments provide stability to the body, allowing you to perform various movements. High ankle sprains account for about 10% of all sprains that ankles experience. You are at a higher risk of Alamo Heights high ankle sprain when you play a high-contact/impact sport, wear shoes without adequate support, have a poorly conditioned body, or have a sprain history.
Treatment and recovery
Treatment enables the return of the tibia and fibula to their usual positions and healing and recovery while still there.
If your injury does not involve a damaged bone, just a strain of ligaments, your health specialist will subject you to conservative treatment. Conservative treatment may include attaching splints, casts, or braces on your ankle. You may also use a walking boot.
You can relieve inflammation by elevating your ankle and leg and applying ice. Applying an ice massage or ice pack for about 20 minutes every few hours can reduce swelling around your ankle. Furthermore, your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs, which are vital for relieving your pain and discouraging infections.
You will need surgery if you have a fracture or severe ankle sprain. After surgery, you will be required to spend between two to five months without intense movement and not bare any weight.
Physical therapy is also vital whether your ankle sprain is light or severe.
Before you can resume your sporting activities, ensure you subject your ankle to strengthening and conditioning exercises. The physical exercises strengthen the muscles and tendons in your ankle.
Thus, your ankles can deliver the optimum balance and coordination required to perform as an athlete or physically active individual.
You need to show your sports medicine specialist that your injured ankle has regained its full strength, range of motion, and power and that you can perform as an athlete without experiencing discomfort.
Possible complications
Often if you have benefitted from ankle surgery, there is a possibility of having an infection, or the treated area may swell and become stiff. A nerve loss can lead to the inability to feel your feet and cause foot stiffness. Damage to your ankle’s cartilage can also lead to the development of foot and ankle arthritis.
However, an experienced and professional high ankle sprain specialist understands how to avoid damaging the nerves adjacent to the operation area and minimizes complications. If the healing of your injury takes longer than it should, that is a cause for concern. Always stay in touch with your doctor to deal with arising issues swiftly.
Although you can accidentally suffer a high ankle sprain, concentrate on reducing the likelihood of it happening. Condition your ankles to be more robust and flexible, and safeguard them with protective equipment, including braces.
Contact Sports Medicine Associates today to receive treatment for a high ankle sprain.
