Ankle Sprain Specialist

Foot and Ankle Surgeon located in Kerrville and South Texas Medical Center, San Antonio, TX

Ankle Sprain services offered in Kerrville and South Texas Medical Center, San Antonio, TX

Up to 25 million Americans experience an ankle sprain each day. If you roll your ankle or step down awkwardly while working or playing sports, don’t wait to seek treatment. At South Texas Foot Surgeons, PA, board-certified podiatrist Shay Fish, DPM, and the team provide minimally invasive treatment for ankle sprains, including physical therapy, custom orthotics, and assistive devices like crutches. To make an appointment, call the office in Kerrville or San Antonio, Texas, or book online today.

Ankle Sprain Q&A

What is an ankle sprain?

An ankle sprain occurs when you roll, twist, or bend your ankle in an unusual position. That causes the ligaments around your ankle joint –– tough bands of fibrous tissue –– to stretch, tear, and swell.

If you experience an ankle sprain, you might find it difficult to stand up or place weight on the affected joint. Fortunately, various treatments can provide relief and encourage your body’s healing process.

What are the symptoms of an ankle sprain?

The symptoms of an ankle sprain include:

Pain
Tenderness
Swelling
Bruising
Restricted range of motion
Ankle instability

Depending on the severity of the sprain, you might also hear a clicking or popping sound at the time of the injury.

When should I see a foot and ankle specialist about an ankle sprain?

If you twist your ankle and it’s swollen or painful, make an appointment at South Texas Foot Surgeons, PA. That’s especially true if there’s significant bruising and redness or you’re unable to stand up or place weight on your ankle.

How is an ankle sprain diagnosed?

Dr. Fish and the team diagnose an ankle sprain during an in-office visit.

Your provider reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and examines your ankle, looking for redness, bruising, and swelling. Your provider gently presses on your ankle joint and tests your ankle’s muscle strength, flexibility, and range of motion.

Most sprains are obvious, but if your provider suspects a more serious problem, like a fracture or a dislocated joint, they might also order X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI.

How is an ankle sprain treated?

Your ankle sprain treatment depends on the severity of your symptoms and their effect on your daily routine. Usually, Dr. Fish and the team recommend self-care measures, including:

Ice
Rest
Elevation
Compression
Physical therapy
Over-the-counter pain medication

If your ankle remains unstable or doesn’t heal even after physical therapy, Dr. Fish and the team might recommend surgery.

How can I reduce the risk of an ankle sprain?

You can do several things to reduce the risk of an ankle sprain. Dr. Fish and the team recommend warming up before exercise, maintaining good muscle strength and flexibility, and wearing shoes that fit well and are comfortable.

To learn more about the treatment options for an ankle sprain, make an appointment at South Texas Foot Surgeons, PA, by calling the nearest office or booking online today.

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