If you have recently sprained your ankle, you are probably eager to return to your feet and resume your normal activities. Luckily, hospitals can offer a variety of treatments and techniques to help speed up your recovery and get you back to your daily routine as quickly as possible. With state-of-the-art equipment and highly trained medical professionals, hospitals can provide everything from pain management to physical therapy to help you recover from an Evergreen sprained ankle.
A sprained ankle occurs when your foot suddenly twists, turns, and stretches or tears your ankle’s ligaments. The most typical reasons for a sprained ankle include the following:
- Sports injuries: A sprained ankle is a common sports injury, particularly in sports that involve running, jumping, or sudden changes in direction. This includes sports like basketball, soccer, tennis, and football.
- Poor footwear: Wearing shoes that don’t provide enough support or are too loose can increase your risk of a sprained ankle.
- Weak muscles and ligaments: Weak muscles and ligaments around your ankle can make you more susceptible to a sprain.
Here are some ways that hospitals can help you, as well as some practical tips for a successful recovery:
- Rest and immobilization: One of the first things hospitals may do is recommend rest and immobilization of the affected ankle. This may involve crutches, a brace, or a cast to keep the ankle still while it heals. Follow these recommendations, as trying to walk or put weight on the injured ankle can slow the healing process.
- Ice and compression: Hospitals may also recommend using ice and compression to reduce swelling and pain. You can do this at home by applying ice to the affected ankle for 20 minutes daily. You can also wrap the ankle with an elastic bandage to help reduce swelling.
- Physical therapy: Hospitals can advise on physical therapy to help you recover faster from a sprained ankle. This may involve exercises to strengthen the muscles around the ankle and improve the range of motion. Follow your physical therapist’s recommendations and exercise regularly to improve your recovery.
- Medication: Hospitals may also prescribe pain or anti-inflammatory drugs to help you manage the pain and swelling associated with a sprained ankle. Take these medications as prescribed, and don’t exceed the recommended dosage.
Here are some practical tips for a successful recovery from a sprained ankle:
- Rest and elevate your ankle: Rest your ankle as much as possible and elevate it above your heart whenever possible. This will help speed up the healing process and reduce swelling.
- Do your exercises: Follow your physical therapist’s recommendations and do your exercises regularly to strengthen the muscles around the ankle and improve your range of motion.
- Gradually increase activity: As your ankle heals, increase your activity level gradually. Start with simple exercises and walking, and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your activities.
By following these recommendations and working closely with your healthcare provider at Rocky Mountain Foot and Ankle Center, you can recover faster from a sprained ankle and return to normal activities.
