Warning Signs Of A Sprained Ankle

Feeling Unstable

An ankle sprain can cause instability in the ankle, which can make individuals feel unstable when they stand or walk. Ankle instability occurs when the outside of an ankle gives way as individuals walk. This can cause the affected foot to roll to the side. Unfortunately, this instability makes individuals more likely to injure an ankle again or injure themselves more severely as they're recovering from the initial injury. Individuals who experience ankle instability may need to wear a brace or cast on their affected ankle while they're recovering. A brace helps hold the foot in place and keep the ankle from rolling outward, preventing further injury and providing extra strength. Chronic ankle instability occurs when individuals have repeated ankle sprains that lead to permanent damage in the ankle. Many individuals deal with chronic ankle instability, including many athletes who have suffered sports injuries. Chronic ankle instability often causes ankles to turn repeatedly, persistent swelling and discomfort, tenderness or pain, and unstable or wobbly feelings when individuals walk or dance or play sports.

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Reduced Range Of Motion

An ankle sprain can lead to a reduced range of motion in the ankle. Like other symptoms, the severity of this depends on how serious the injury was. If the ligament was severely torn, patients might need physical therapy to regain range of motion after the healing process is over. When individuals experience the injury, they might find they can't move their ankle as far as they usually do without pain. Several other factors can contribute to a reduced range of motion in the ankles. If patients are undergoing treatment for chronic medical conditions like diabetes or neuropathy, they're more likely to have a reduced motion range, especially if they sprain an ankle. It's common to have a somewhat reduced range of motion during the healing process. However, if patients are still not able to move the affected ankle fully after other painful symptoms have abated, they might need to reach out to a physical therapist. They can determine the seriousness of the joint injury and develop a plan of action.

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