Ankle Sprain

An estimated 25,000 ankle sprains occur every day, often during familiar activities like running errands, playing sports, and working. You can even experience that dreaded twinge during activities that you’ve done a thousand times before. At Blackstone Valley Foot and Ankle in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, experienced podiatrist Joseph Domenico, DPM, and his team help you come back strong from a rolled, strained, or sprained ankle. Book an evaluation at Blackstone Valley Foot and Ankle today by calling the office or scheduling online.

How common is an ankle sprain?

Ankle sprains are extremely common, and you may be particularly prone to them if you’re an athlete or participate in running, jumping, or other activities that stress your ankles. 

That being said, you don’t have to be an athlete to experience one. You can injure your ankle ligaments with simple movements like taking a step awkwardly, changing direction a bit too suddenly, or falling.

Because ankle sprains can vary considerably in severity, prompt evaluation is important. Repeated or improperly treated sprains can contribute to chronic ankle instability and pain and increase your risk of future injuries.

How can I tell if I have an ankle sprain?

Tell-tale ankle sprain symptoms include:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Tenderness
• Difficulty putting weight on the affected foot
• Ankle stiffness
• Feeling like your ankle is weak or unstable

The location and severity of your symptoms can offer clues, but they don’t always tell the whole story. Ankle fractures and other foot or ankle injuries can cause similar symptoms. 

If you can’t bear weight, have significant swelling or bruising, notice an unusual appearance, or experience severe pain, schedule an evaluation at Blackstone Valley Foot and Ankle.

Your provider can examine your ankle, assess its stability and range of motion, and determine whether you need imaging tests to rule out a fracture or other injury.

What can I expect from expert care for ankle sprains?

Expert ankle sprain treatment at Blackstone Valley Foot and Ankle begins with an accurate diagnosis and an individualized treatment plan. Depending on the severity of the injury, care may include:

• Modifying your activity levels
• Ice
• Compression
• Elevation
• Bracing
• Temporary immobilization

Your provider may also recommend physical therapy or targeted exercises to restore strength, balance, flexibility, and stability.

As your ankle heals, your treatment plan can progress gradually from protecting the injured ligaments to restoring normal movement and safely returning you to work, exercise, or sports.

If ankle pain or swelling isn’t improving, or if you’ve sprained the same ankle more than once, professional evaluation at Blackstone Valley Foot and Ankle can help identify underlying instability and reduce the risk of another injury. Early, expert care can get you back on your feet with confidence.

To speed your recovery after ankle sprains, call the Blackstone Valley Foot and Ankle office or schedule your appointment online today.