Warning Signs Of A Sprained Ankle

Sprained ankles occur when individuals turn, twist, or roll their ankles in a way they're not supposed to move. Doing this can cause the ligaments holding the ankle bones together to stretch or tear. Ligaments are tough tissues that help stabilize joints and prevent excessive movement. Sprained ankles occur when ligaments move beyond their average range of motion. A sprain is an injury to the ligaments, while a strain is an injury to muscles. The majority of sprained ankles occur when the ligaments on the outside of an ankle become injured. Some sprained ankles are mild, while others are more severe. The treatment varies depending on the severity. Some individuals might just need to rest, while others might need a more thorough medical evaluation.

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Swelling And Tenderness

A sprained ankle often occurs with some swelling and tenderness. There will often be pain when individuals put weight on the affected ankle, and it might also be tender when touched. The level of swelling will vary depending on how severe the injury is. Ankle swelling isn't always a sign of an ankle injury, but it should be monitored carefully if it follows an injury. Swelling occurs when fluid accumulates in the ankle. This condition is medically referred to as peripheral edema. In addition to occurring after an injury, the ankles may also become swollen after individuals been standing for a long time. Certain cardiovascular illnesses can cause leg swelling due to poor circulation. If individuals elevate their legs, and the swelling doesn't abate, they might want to talk to a doctor. One of the main at-home treatments for an ankle sprain is to elevate the affected leg and keep weight off it. If the pain remains severe, a doctor might order x-rays and other imaging tests to make sure the bone isn't broken.

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Foot Or Ankle Pain

Foot and ankle pain can often occur alongside a sprained ankle. When individuals roll an ankle, there will typically be a short and painful sensation that alerts them to the fact their foot has been hurt. If the injury wasn't severe, this sensation will typically abate after individuals regain their balance. In more serious cases, patients might experience continuing pain in their ankle or foot. It might become stronger or radiate up the individual's leg when they walk, causing a limp. If patients are limping seriously, it's a strong sign there has been damage to a tendon or ligament. The pain will vary depending on how severe the injury is. For some patients, it might feel like a stabbing or burning pain around the injury. This might get worse when they walk. Others describe the pain as a dull throbbing or aching. Regardless of the form the pain takes, if individuals have ongoing painful sensations after rolling an ankle, they need to rest.

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