Ankle sprains are the most common injury sustained in high school sports. Most of these sprains heal within a week and without surgery. However, given the preponderance of this injury, awareness and prevention measures should be employed for this age group. Sports requiring running and jumping, like basketball, soccer, and gymnastics, commonly lead to ankle sprains. This injury often involves contact with another player within the sport. Prior injury is a risk factor for future ankle sprains. It is unclear whether wearing an ankle brace helps to prevent or increase the risk of ankle sprains. What is known is that if one sustains an ankle sprain, it is important to let it heal sufficiently before reengaging in the sport. Also, strengthening exercises can have beneficial effects on reducing the risk of ankle sprains. Repeated trauma to the ankle that is not treated can lead to chronic ankle instability and ankle osteoarthritis over one’s lifespan. If your high schooler participates in sports and sprains an ankle, it is a good idea to see a chiropodist to properly diagnose the severity of the sprain and obtain treatment.
Injuries to the foot and ankle are very common among athletes. If you have experienced an injury, please consult with one of the chiropodists from Complete Family Footcare & Therapy. Our clinicians will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Common Injuries Among Athletes:
Achilles tendon injuries
Ankle strains or sprains
Plantar fasciitis
Fractures
Turf toe
Joint dislocations
Sever’s disease
Morton’s neuroma
Symptoms
Symptoms will depend on the cause and severity of the injury. Common symptoms for a foot or ankle injury include pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, a reduced range of motion, and difficulty bearing weight or walking on the affected foot or ankle.
Diagnosis
Sports injuries are typically diagnosed after carefully examining the affected foot or ankle. This includes moving the injured area to test its range of motion. Medical history will need to be provided, as well as detailed information about how the injury occurred. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, may be used to confirm or rule out certain diagnoses.
Treatment
Just like symptoms, treatment will depend on the type of injury and its severity. Initial treatment for many sports injuries is aimed at controlling inflammation and promoting the healing response. The acronym R.I.C.E is a helpful guide to implement for most acute injuries. This method involves resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot or ankle. In addition, anti-inflammatory medications may be administered and orthotic devices may be prescribed. For more severe injuries, surgery may be required. Lastly, rehabilitation or physical therapy may be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
