Lateral ankle sprain is a common injury, especially among athletes, that could cause pain and discomfort for days, if left untreated, it can develop into a chronic condition that can result in instability and loss of function. One of the essential elements of treating this condition is rest; however, patients are sometimes apprehensive about resting their injured limb, worried that the pain might get worse or become unbearable. If you are one of these people, then you have come to the right place. In this blog, we will answer the question, “Does lateral ankle sprain hurt when resting?” We will also look at how physiotherapy and chiropractic care could help you recover from this injury.
Lateral ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments of the ankle joint stretch or tear beyond their limits, causing pain and swelling. Almost every patient with this injury is advised to rest their injured ankle for a few days to allow the injury to heal. During the resting period, the ankle should be elevated, and patients should avoid putting weight on it. This rest period may cause some discomfort, but it is essential to give the affected tissues time to heal and reduce the risk of reinjury.
However, patients sometimes worry that the pain will become unbearable, and they cannot rest their ankle since the pain seems to increase when the limb is not moving. This could be due to inflammation and the buildup of fluids around the injured area. Elevating the ankle above the heart level and applying cold compresses at regular intervals could help reduce the swelling and discomfort, making the rest period more manageable.
Physiotherapy is a crucial treatment option for lateral ankle sprain, and it can help patients recover more quickly while minimizing the risk of developing chronic conditions. Physiotherapists use a variety of techniques, including exercises, massage therapy, and electrotherapy, to improve range of motion, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation to the injured area. They can also help identify any muscle weakness or imbalances that contribute to the injury and provide tailored exercises to address those issues.
Chiropractic care is another alternative therapy that could help manage pain and restore full ankle function. Chiropractors focus on the relationship between the spine and the nervous system, and they use spinal adjustments to improve the body’s overall function and stimulate the body’s natural healing ability. Chiropractic care for lateral ankle sprain could involve adjustments of the ankle joint to improve mobility, reduce pain and swelling, and prevent scar tissue build-up.
In conclusion, lateral ankle sprains can be painful, and patients may worry about resting the affected limb. However, rest is a crucial aspect of the recovery process, and patients must follow their healthcare provider’s advice to avoid further injury. Patients may also benefit from physiotherapy and chiropractic care to boost their recovery while reducing the risk of complications such as chronic instability. If you are experiencing lateral ankle sprain, speak to your healthcare provider today to get personalized treatment options and get back on your feet as soon as possible.
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!
