If you love staying active, you must have heard of ankle sprains before. But have you ever experienced a high ankle sprain? This type of injury can be more severe and can take longer to heal. In this blog post, we will dive deep into the stages of high ankle sprains and how you can work with your physiotherapist or chiropractor to recover.
Stage 1: Injury
The first stage of a high ankle sprain is the injury itself. The injury usually happens when the foot twists or rolls outwards while the ankle is in a fixed position. When this happens, the ligaments that connect the lower leg bone (tibia) to the ankle bone (fibula) get stretched or torn. The initial symptoms of a high ankle sprain include pain, swelling, and difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected ankle. If you suspect that you have a high ankle sprain, seek medical attention immediately.
Stage 2: Inflammation
In stage 2, the focus shifts to managing inflammation and controlling pain. During this stage, your physiotherapist or chiropractor may recommend RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) to reduce pain and swelling. They may also prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or recommend a brace or crutches to help you move around while your ankle heals. Depending on the severity of your injury, this stage can last anywhere between a few days to a few weeks.
Stage 3: Rehabilitation
Once the inflammation subsides, you will move on to the rehabilitation stage. This stage is all about regaining the strength, mobility, and flexibility of your ankle. Your physiotherapist or chiropractor may design a customized rehabilitation plan that includes exercises to improve range of motion, balance, and muscle strength. They may also use manual techniques like massage therapy or joint mobilization to promote healing.
Stage 4: Return to Sport
The final stage is returning to sport or activities that you enjoy. Depending on the nature of your activity, your physiotherapist or chiropractor will guide you through a gradual return to high-intensity activities. They may recommend sport-specific exercises and drills to improve your performance and reduce the risk of reinjury. Keep in mind that rushing back to your sport too soon can prolong your recovery time and increase the risk of chronic pain and instability.
High ankle sprains can be challenging to deal with, but with proper treatment and rehabilitation, you can make a full recovery. Remember, recovery is a journey, not a destination, so don’t hesitate to seek the help of a skilled physiotherapist or chiropractor to guide you through the stages of high ankle sprains. Stay positive, be patient, and focus on your goals, and you’ll be back to doing the activities you love in no time!
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!
