Ankle Sprains

Ankle Sprain Treatment in Santa Monica, CA

At SoCal Sports Podiatry, we specialize in treating ankle sprains to help you regain mobility and reduce pain. Our board-certified podiatrists use advanced diagnostic tools to assess your injury and create a personalized treatment plan. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and start your recovery process.

Symptoms of an Ankle Sprain

An ankle sprain often presents with pain around the ankle joint, particularly when bearing weight, along with swelling and bruising that can appear immediately or develop within a few hours. Movement may be limited, making it difficult to rotate or flex the ankle, and a feeling of instability or weakness might be present, creating the sensation that the ankle could give out during activity.

Causes and Risk Factors

Ankle sprains often occur during activities that involve sudden changes in direction, jumping, or uneven surfaces. Athletes, particularly those involved in sports like basketball, soccer, and running, are at higher risk. Wearing improper footwear or having a history of previous ankle injuries can also increase the likelihood of sprains.

Diagnosis and Treatment at SoCal Sports Podiatry

At SoCal Sports Podiatry, our specialists begin by assessing the severity of your ankle sprain through a physical examination and, if necessary, imaging tests like X-rays or MRI. Treatment typically involves the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) for mild sprains, along with anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling.

For more severe sprains, we may recommend:

• Bracing or Casting: To immobilize the ankle and allow the ligaments to heal.
• Physical Therapy: To restore strength, flexibility, and balance in the ankle joint, preventing future injuries.
• Surgical Intervention: In rare cases where the ligament is completely torn, surgery may be required to repair the damage.

Prevention Tips

To prevent ankle sprains, it’s important to wear appropriate footwear, warm up before physical activities, and strengthen the muscles around the ankle through regular exercise.

If you’ve suffered an ankle sprain or want to learn more about preventing future injuries, visit SoCal Sports Podiatry at 2001 Santa Monica Blvd. Suite 465-W, Santa Monica, CA 90404. You can also call us at (310) 395-5025 to schedule a consultation with our experienced team.