“Sprained ankle” and hidden dangers you may not know before

Many people may think that only a sprained ankle will heal, but actually, there may be hidden dangers that we may not be aware of.

Pain, swelling, bruising, or inability to bear weight are typical symptoms of a “sprained ankle” that can be observed physically after an accident or sports, but these symptoms can also indicate other diseases. However, it must be diagnosed by an experienced specialist.

Dr. Kwin Wongthongsri, Orthopedic Surgeon, Foot and Ankle Surgery, Musculoskeletal and Joint Center, Navavech Hospital, collects basic information about the symptoms of “sprained ankle” that is useful for everyone. Notice the abnormality that occurs from the beginning, in order to be a guide to enter the treatment process in a timely manner.

What is a sprained ankle?

Ankle sprains are injuries to the tendons around the outside of the ball of the ankle, which are often found in sports accidents. In general, about 80% can heal on their own without surgery if they receive the correct and appropriate treatment.

Symptoms of sprained ankle

• Pain and swelling around the eyeball
• There is a spot of bleeding under the face, bruises and bruises
• Can’t walk and lose weight

Such symptoms may have a group of diseases with similar symptoms, such as ankle fracture, 5th toe fracture, tendon rupture, heel fracture, etc. However, it should be diagnosed separately by a specialist doctor for treatment. Next

Treatment of sprained ankle

1. Should stop walking and use the injured foot
2. Cold compress on the injured area
3. Elevate your legs to reduce foot swelling
4. The doctor may consider treatment by wearing a cast in case of severe injury for a period of about 1-2 weeks
5. Oral medication to reduce inflammation of the ankle

If the injury has not improved, additional treatment may be considered through physical therapy, and if the injury has not improved within 6 weeks, the doctor will do an MRI to diagnose the condition. Other co-occurring diseases, such as cartilaginous skin injuries or tendon tears above the ankle

However, about 20% of patients with ankle sprains will have residual ankle instability, which requires surgical treatment. At present, surgery is divided into 2 methods:

1. Open surgery, open surgery to repair the injured tendon, is the standard method of treatment
2. Laparoscopic surgery is currently a treatment option that can reduce the size of the surgical incision.

Reinjury prevention

1. After the injury has healed, you should practice ankle management to improve the alignment of the injured tendons around the ankle and prevent future ankle sprains.
2. Avoid wearing high heels
3. Wear an ankle brace to prevent repeated ankle sprains
4. Avoid sports with a high risk of repetitive strain injury