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What to Avoid with High Ankle Sprain

What to Avoid with High Ankle Sprain
What to Avoid with High Ankle Sprain

When you suffer a high ankle sprain you may experience pain and swelling which can interfere with your daily activities. If not treated promptly this can lead to chronic pain and instability. A high ankle sprain occurs when ligaments connecting the two bones above the ankle (tibia and fibula) become stretched or torn. It is a common injury among athletes who engage in high-impact sports such as basketball, football, or soccer. In this blog post, we will explore some of the things that you should avoid when dealing with a high ankle sprain.

Avoid weight-bearing activities: Putting weight on your injured ankle can exacerbate the injury and prolong the healing process. You should avoid running, jumping, or any activity that puts pressure on the ankle joint. To aid in the healing process, use crutches to keep weight off your affected ankle.

Avoid physical activities that require quick and sharp movements: High ankle sprains often affect your ability to make quick changes in direction. You should avoid activities that require sudden changes of direction, such as playing sports or dancing. Instead, try low-impact activities that do not require sharp movements, such as swimming or cycling.

Avoid self-diagnosis and self-treatment: It is essential to seek professional medical help when dealing with a high ankle sprain. Home remedies may not be enough to deal with a severe injury. A chiropractor or physiotherapist can help diagnose the injury and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may include physiotherapy or bracing.

Avoid neglecting the injury: Leaving a high ankle sprain untreated can lead to long-term complications, such as chronic ankle pain and instability. It is essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible to ensure that the injury heals correctly. Your chiropractor or physiotherapist will help to develop a treatment plan that includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation.

Avoid returning to physical activities too soon: Returning too early to physical activities can re-injure the ankle and undermine your recovery process. It is essential to wait until your injured ankle has fully healed before returning to physical activities. Your chiropractor or physiotherapist can recommend a gradual progression of activities to promote a full recovery.

In conclusion, high ankle sprains can be quite debilitating, but they are treatable with proper care and attention. By avoiding weight-bearing activities, physical activities that require quick and sharp movements, self-diagnosis, and self-treatment, neglecting the injury, and returning to physical activities too soon, you can promote a full recovery. There are also foods you should avoid with high ankle sprains to help your recovery. Your chiropractor or physiotherapist can guide you through the healing process and help you get back to your usual activities safely. Remember to prioritize your well-being and seek medical advice whenever you have an injury.

About the Author

Jonathan Tran, MScPT is a physiotherapist at CARESPACE Westmount East. He helps clients improve their health through personalized, evidence-based care. If you’re looking for physiotherapy in Kitchener, CARESPACE offers coordinated support designed to help you be your best.