How to Manage Pain and Prevent Re-Injury After an Ankle Sprain

A sprained ankle is an injury that occurs when the ligaments in your ankle are overstretched or forced out of their normal position. Ligaments are thick bands of tissue that connect your bones and joints, providing stability to your ankle and preventing excessive movement. 

A sprained ankle can result from a fall, forceful blow, or awkward movements like twisting or rolling the ankle. Ankle sprains are common in sports, like soccer, tennis, and basketball, that require jumping and cutting movements. 

Some people experience a popping sound or sensation at the time of their injury.

A sprained ankle can cause your ligaments to stretch or tear completely. The symptoms of your sprained ankle depend on the severity of your injury. 

If your condition is mild, your doctor may recommend at-home treatments like rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) and over-the-counter pain relievers. In most cases, your doctor can effectively treat your injury with conservative treatments, including:

• Physical therapy
• Electrical nerve stimulation
• Ultrasound therapy
• Continued passive motion (CPM)
• Removable cast or brace

The goal of treatment is to relieve your pain, protect your ankle from further injury, and allow your ligaments to strengthen and heal. If your condition doesn’t respond to conservative care, you may need surgery. At Foot & Ankle Centers of Frisco, Little Elm, & McKinney, our team works with you to find the right treatment for your injury.