4 Reasons Not to Ignore a Sprained Ankle

Sprained ankles are one of the most common injuries you can have. No matter the shoes you wear or how active you are, it’s easy to roll your ankle on uneven ground or land awkwardly after a jump. Many people discount their injury as “just a sprain.”
Ignoring an ankle sprain can lead to future ankle instability. Set yourself up for healthy balance and stability by getting a professional evaluation. 

Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Benjamin Clair at Sports City USA Foot & Ankle Center in McKinney, Texas, assesses your ankle injury and recommends innovative treatment options, including PRP therapy or surgery on the ligaments if your sprain is severe. 

When you get prompt treatment for your ankle sprain, you can improve your ankle stability for the long term. 

Why you shouldn’t ignore a sprained ankle

You probably realize your ankle is an important weight-bearing joint that affects your balance and stability. When you sprain it, you tear or overstretch your ligaments, thick connective tissues that connect your bones and stabilize your joints.

Sprained ankles are common and can lead to future injuries, here’s how ignoring your ankle sprain can affect you later.

1. Increased pain and swelling 

If you sprain your ankle, your immune response kicks in and releases chemicals into your body to heal it. That’s the purpose of inflammation. The area might be red and feel warm. Elevate your injured ankle and put ice on it to reduce swelling while waiting for a professional evaluation.

2. Chronic ankle instability 

Untreated ankle sprains can cause ongoing instability. You may feel you’re babying your ankle or feel like your ankle is at risk of giving out. This instability can put you at risk for future injuries. 

3. Limited range of motion 

Injuries usually result in scar tissue, leading to ankle stiffness and affecting your gait. In some cases, scar tissue can impact your daily activities. 

Recurring sprained ankles are common, and this can create more scar tissue and eventually lead to poor balance and reduce your quality of life if you aren’t able to exercise like you once did. 

4. Increased risk for arthritis 

Since ankle sprains can cause long-term instability and inflammation, this can lead to arthritis in your ankle joint. Some studies show up to 70% of ankle arthritis relates to an earlier ankle injury. 

Seek expert advice 

If you suspect you sprained your ankle, practice the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, elevation), and while you’re doing that, contact our office for a professional evaluation. Our expert team at Sports City USA Foot & Ankle Center assesses your foot and ankle injuries to suggest the best medical approach for long-term balance and stability. 

Call our office or request an appointment online today. We serve the areas of Frisco, McKinney, Prosper, and Celina, Texas.