Foot and Ankle Sprains

Millions of Americans suffer foot and ankle sprains each year. If you step down awkwardly and twist your foot or ankle it’s imperative to seek treatment. At Kenneth Meisler, DPM, PLLC & Associates, on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, the providers offer high-quality care for foot and ankle sprains. To make an appointment today, call the office in New York City or click the online booking feature.

What are foot and ankle sprains?

Sprains occur when you twist, roll, or stretch one or more of the ligaments in your foot or ankle. Ligaments are thick bands of tissue that connect your bones to your joints. They’re incredibly tough, but trauma or general wear-and-tear may cause injuries. 

If you sprain your foot or ankle, contact Kenneth Meisler, DPM,  PLLC & Associates right away. The sooner you get treated, the less likely you are to experience complications.

What are the symptoms of foot and ankle sprains?

The symptoms of foot and ankle sprains include:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Tenderness
• Difficulty putting weight on the affected foot or ankle
• Difficulty walking, running, or exercising

You might also experience ankle instability or crunching and popping sensations, depending on the sprain’s severity.

Who is at risk of foot and ankle sprains?

Anyone can experience a foot and ankle sprain, but several factors may increase your risk, including:

• Playing sports
• Working a demanding job
• Walking or running on uneven surfaces
• Being in poor physical condition

You’re also more likely to suffer a foot or ankle sprain if you wear tight or uncomfortable shoes that don’t provide adequate support.

How are foot and ankle sprains diagnosed?

To diagnose a foot or ankle sprain, your Kenneth Meisler, DPM, PLLC & Associates provider reviews your medical records and examines your lower leg, ankle, and foot. They check your skin for bruising, swelling, or redness, and assess your muscle strength and range of motion.

They also order diagnostic imaging, like X-rays, an MRI, or an ultrasound. These procedures help your provider assess the condition of your ligaments, tendons, bones, and joints.

How are foot and ankle sprains treated?

Treatment of foot and ankle sprains depends on various things, including the severity of your injury and its effect on your routine. Your Kenneth Meisler, DPM, PLLC & Associates provider recommends conservative measures, including:

• Rest
• Ice
• Compression
• Elevation
• Physical therapy
• Bracing
• Anti-inflammatory medication

If you have a severe sprain or ankle instability, your provider might recommend surgery. Surgery can repair ligaments that won’t heal or reconstruct damaged ligaments with healthy tissue.

Make an appointment today at Kenneth Meisler, DPM, PLLC & Associates to receive treatment for foot and ankle sprains. Call the office or click the online booking feature.