Custom Orthotics

Call for a appointment now!

Ankle Sprain

Ankle Sprains are the most common sports injury. More than 80% of sprains occur on the outside of the ankle (lateral aspect). A sprain occurs when the ankle rolls to quickly causing the ligaments to stretch or tear.

Ligaments are strong fibrous tissues, which hold joints together. They contain specialized cells (Proprioceptor cells), which tell the ligaments to tighten when they begin to stretch beyond the norm. During sports or stepping on an uneven surface can cause movement to occur sooner than the receptor cells can respond, thus stretching or tearing the ligament.

Some individuals are more prone to ankle sprains due to their foot structure. High arched feet, for example, are rigid and shift a disproportionate amount of force to the lateral (outside) of the foot increasing the chance of contacting the ground at an abnormal angle.

Ankle sprains also cause a partial dislocation of several surrounding joints. Failure to have these joints properly adjusted can lead to fibrous adhesions, reduced joint range of motion and incomplete healing, for example, pain remains months or years after the initial injury. Several Osteopathic adjustments provided by a trained Chiropodist can significantly increase healing time and ensure proper bony alignment occurs.

Due to the high frequency of ankle sprains in sports, it is the most common sports injury to present to the emergency room. Once a fracture has been eliminated in the E.R. they are often under treated resulting in chronic ankle instability. This can lead to prolonged healing time and significant probability of re-injuring the area. There can also be chronic pain from partially dislocated joints.

What to do when injury occurs:

    1. Immobilize the ankle/Tensor bandage. Limit or avoid weight bearing. Seek assessment of injury from a chiropodist, family doctor or Emergency room.
    2. R.I.C.E

      R. rest ankle

      I. ice pack to ankle for 10-12 min. every3 hours for 24hours (sleep exempted).

      C. Compression with tensor bandage

      E. elevate the leg.

    3. See a chiropodist for joint adjustment in the first 48 hours if possible or if your injury is chronic, your chiropodist can still help with established adhesions.
    4. We will begin your rehabilitation carefully, once the acute effects have subsided.