Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries that many people experience in their lifetime. These sprains occur when the ligaments surrounding your ankle joint stretch or tear typically as a result of sudden twisting or forceful movement. In this blog post, we will be discussing one of the most common types of ankle sprains – lateral ankle sprains. We’ll explore what causes these types of sprains and the different treatment options available to help restore full function of your ankle and prevent future injuries.
Lateral ankle sprains are caused when the foot rolls inward causing the ligaments on the outside of the ankle to stretch or tear. This type of sprain is very common in activities such as basketball, soccer, or even just walking on unstable surfaces. Athletes and people who engage in high-impact sports are particularly susceptible to these types of injuries.
The most common causes of lateral ankle sprains are sudden changes of direction when walking, running, or pivoting, and landing awkwardly after a jump. These movements put a lot of stress on the ligaments that support the ankle and can lead to injuries. People who have weak ankles due to previous injuries are also more susceptible to lateral ankle sprains.
When you experience a lateral ankle sprain, the severity of the injury can range from mild to severe. Mild sprains may only require basic home treatment such as rest, icing, and compression, while severe sprains can require surgery. In either case, it’s important to seek prompt medical attention to prevent long-term complications.
Chiropractic care and physiotherapy are two of the most effective treatment options for lateral ankle sprains. A skilled chiropractor can help you to regain your mobility through a variety of techniques such as spinal adjustments, stretching exercises, and rehabilitation exercises. Physiotherapy focuses on strengthening your ankle and helping you to regain full range of motion through targeted exercises and stretches.
In conclusion, lateral ankle sprains can be a frustrating and painful experience. However, with the right treatment and care, most people are able to make a full recovery and prevent future injuries. If you’re dealing with an ankle sprain, seek prompt medical attention and consider working with a chiropractor or physiotherapist to help you regain your strength and mobility. By taking proactive steps to care for your ankle, you can enjoy a pain-free, active lifestyle for years to come.
In conclusion, the healing process after a lateral ankle sprain depends on various factors. Mild sprains can heal in less than a week. On the other hand, moderate sprains can take up to six weeks to heal, and severe sprains can take up to eight weeks or more to heal. The initial conservative treatment is beneficial, but alternative treatments, such as chiropractic care and physiotherapy, have been proven to increase stability and create a better chance of a full recovery. Therefore, for the best possible chance of recovery and one where future ankle sprains are less likely to occur, seek expert advice.
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 other Kitchener chiropractors at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
