Ankle Injuries Specialist

Do ankle injuries only affect athletes?

You don’t have to be an athlete to suffer a fractured, sprained or strained ankle. Ankle injuries affect people of all ages and activity levels. In fact, something as simple as walking on an uneven surface or stepping down in an awkward way can cause a painful sprain. Ankle injuries are so common, it’s estimated that 25,000 Americans sprain their ankle every day.

What are some common types of ankle injuries?

The type of ankle injury you experience depends on the kind of tissue that’s damaged. At Downstate Foot & Ankle Podiatry, the team regularly diagnoses and treats:

Sprains 

A group of strong, fibrous ligaments surrounds your ankle joint, providing it with additional support. However, if you roll or twist your ankle, you can overextend these ligaments, causing small tears to form. If these tears become inflamed, they can cause swelling, bruising, and general discomfort. 

Fractures

Three bones meet in your ankle: the tibia, fibula, and talus. If one or more of these bones experience a break or fracture, it might cause pain, swelling, and prevent you from bearing weight or walking on the affected joint. 

Tendon injuries

Tendon injuries, or strains, occur when the muscles and tendons in your ankle stretch too far. The peroneal tendons in your ankle are particularly susceptible to injury because they’re responsible for protecting and stabilizing your ankle joint.

If I injure my ankle what should I do?

If you injure your ankle while working, playing sports or doing chores, it’s important to remember the RICE protocol. RICE stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Most minor ankle injuries subside within 24-48 hours.

However, if your symptoms persist, it’s important to seek the opinion of a medical professional. Left untreated, fractures and sprains can cause long-term problems with your ankle, including repeated injuries, weakness, and arthritis. 

How are ankle injuries diagnosed and treated?

The team at Downstate Foot & Ankle Podiatry diagnosis foot pain by performing a physical exam, reviewing your medical history, and asking you a series of questions about your symptoms. If necessary, they might also order a series of X-rays, MRI  or other diagnostic imaging to get a better look at the bones and underlying structures of your foot. 

Treatment for heel pain depends on the source and severity of your symptoms. Many times, conservative methods of care, such as rest, physical therapy, and at-home exercises, are enough to provide relief. More serious cases might require custom orthotics or surgical intervention. 

If heel pain is preventing you from living an active and mobile lifestyle, help is available. Call or use the online booking tool to make an appointment at Downstate Foot & Ankle Podiatry today.