03 May The Ankle Sprain “Epidemic”
By now we’re all familiar with the word pandemic.
It’s the worldwide spread of a new disease that most people do not have immunity. An epidemic is a disease affecting many people at the same time and spreading from person to person in a locality where the disease is not prevalent.
So while ankle sprains are not a spreading disease, they are very common. It is estimated there are over three million ankle sprains reported to doctors annually in the United States. That’s “reported,” so the number is much greater. For every ankle sprain that is reported, there are at least ten ankle sprains that are treated at home without proper care. Ankle sprains that are not properly treated cause a great deal of short-term and long-term complications and those with long-term complications can often only be addressed and corrected with surgery.
By visiting a foot and ankle specialist you’ll get a proper exam of the ankle and associated structures, x-rays will be taken to rule out a fracture and an MRI may be ordered to further evaluate the soft tissue structures around the ankle along with the ankle cartilage. It’s best to get evaluated early to avoid a prolonged recovery and possibly avoid surgery. When the injury occurs, RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) is key, along with wearing some form of over-the-counter ankle brace for support. Once comfortable, go and get an evaluation by a podiatrist.
At Strash Foot and Ankle Care we see and treat ankle sprains daily. If you are experiencing ankle pain please call our office to arrange a visit. Our number one priority is to place your best foot forward, again.