An ankle injury is one of the most common seen by an orthopaedic physician; each year doctors see 2 million people for sprains, strains, and fractures. The severity of these injuries will determine the type of treatment needed.

Ankle injuries often occur during high-intensity activities, such as basketball or soccer, but can just as easily occur during less strenuous sports and activities.

Most injuries can be treated using nonsurgical methods, while others require surgery to help activity-goers resume an active lifestyle. Fortunately, advancements in techniques and technology have improved the treatment of today’s athletes.

RICE

RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) is the best method used to treat mild sprains and strains. Rest is needed to allow the injured ankle to heal. Ice helps reduce the swelling and should be used frequently after an injury. Compression entails supporting the ankle with a bandage or gel wrap, while elevating your foot will help minimize bruising and swelling.

Often strains and sprains are mild and can be treated at home. But if your injury continues to cause pain and swell, you should have an orthopaedic surgeon evaluate it.

Medication

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may help to reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation.

Physical therapy

Severe injuries may take several months to heal and may require physical therapy to restore full muscle balance and strength. Physical therapy may involve stretching the Achilles tendon and performing exercises for coordination and speed, while using tape or a brace to provide support for the ankle.

Surgery

Surgery is the last treatment option considered. While most ankle injuries can be successfully treated nonsurgically, surgery can help you relieve pain and restore mobility with minimal risks.

If your injury doesn’t heal as a result of the RICE method and if pain and immobility persist, you should visit an orthopaedic surgeon for an evaluation to prevent future pain and debilitation.

For more on ankle injury treatments, see Dr. Steven Raikin’s article entitled “Treating Ankle Injuries” (click on the pdf of the Sept/Oct issue and go to page 14). Dr. Raikin is an orthopaedic surgeon at the Rothman Institute who specializes in foot and ankle care.