Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries, especially for athletes and active people. A lateral ankle sprain occurs when the ankle twists or rolls to the side, resulting in injury to the ligaments on the outside of the ankle. While some ankle sprains are mild, others can be quite severe, leading to prolonged pain, swelling, and instability. Whether the injury resolves on its own depends on the severity of the sprain and the type of treatment you receive. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the various treatments available for lateral ankle sprains, including chiropractic care and physiotherapy.
The Do’s and Don’ts Of Ankle Sprain Care
If you are dealing with a lateral ankle sprain, the first step is to understand how to take care of it right away. Rest and elevation are important, as is applying ice to the affected area. However, avoid heat, as this can increase inflammation, and do not wrap the ankle too tight. Additionally, avoid activities that cause further pain and swelling, such as running or jumping. These do’s and don’ts can help reduce pain and swelling, but to fully recover the sprained ankle, professional care is usually recommended.
Chiropractic Care For Ankle Sprains
Chiropractic care is a non-invasive treatment option that can be highly effective for ankle sprains. A chiropractor will assess the extent of the injury, including how much swelling or pain is present. They will then use gentle, hands-on adjustments or recommend specific exercises to improve range of motion, stability, and balance. A chiropractor may also suggest lifestyle modifications that can speed up the healing process, such as avoiding high-impact activities and wearing supportive shoes.
Physiotherapy For Ankle Sprains
Physiotherapy can also be an effective treatment option for ankle sprains. A physiotherapist will evaluate the injury and assess any underlying biomechanical issues that may have contributed to the sprain. They will then develop a customized plan that includes exercises to strengthen the ankle and improve range of motion, as well as manual techniques to reduce pain and swelling. In addition to these specific treatments, a physiotherapist may also suggest other interventions such as massage, acupuncture, or ultrasound to help speed up the healing process.
The Importance of Follow-Up Care
While chiropractic care and physiotherapy can be highly effective for lateral ankle sprains, it’s essential to continue follow-up care after the initial treatment. This may include rehabilitation exercises, lifestyle modifications, and further adjustments or manual treatments to ensure that the ankle’s healing process is progressing correctly. Additionally, ongoing care can help prevent future injuries and promote a healthy return to activity.
If you’ve recently experienced a lateral ankle strain, know that the injury does not necessarily go away on its own. However, with proper care and professional intervention, you can fully recover and get back to your active lifestyle. Chiropractic care and physiotherapy are just a couple of the many treatment options available for lateral ankle sprains. By following the do’s and don’ts of care, seeking professional intervention, and continuing follow-up care, you can ensure that your ankle heals correctly and remains healthy in the long run.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Tyler Baron, BASc, DC or another Kitchener chiropractor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
