Avoid Sprains & Fractures This Summer With warm weather in full swing, most of us have been enjoying the outdoors, whether that means tending to our yards and gardens, playing recreational sports or spending time at the beach. However, it takes just one wrong step for summer fun to turn into a painful ankle sprain or fracture. Walking, running and playing on uneven surfaces, such as grassy lawns, beaches and hiking trails, leave us susceptible to ankle trauma. Lightweight, unsupportive summer footwear, such as sandals or flip-flops, make it even more difficult for us to regain balance on uneven surfaces. Sprains are one of the most common ankle injuries, but how can we tell if ankle pain is a sprain or a fracture? An ankle sprain is an injury to one or more of the ligaments in the ankle. ese ligaments are like rubber bands that stabilize the ankle and limit its side-to-side motion. When these ligaments are stretched or torn, which can happen, for example, when the ankle is suddenly twisted, a sprain results. A fracture can also occur when the foot is rolled under and the ankle is twisted. In this case, one or more bones may break or the ligament may pull a piece of bone off when it tears. When you have an ankle sprain, rehabilitation is crucial, and it starts the moment your treatment begins. Treatment of ankle fractures depends on the type and severity of the injury. If you suffer from an ankle injury, follow the R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) protocol and contact our office for a proper evaluation or seek care at your local Emergency Department after hours. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the fracture and other soft tissue-related injuries, if present. If you or a family membersuffers a sprained orfractured ankle thissummer,followthese steps: 1. Stay off of it. Walking with a sprain or fracture can cause further damage. 2. Ice it. Make an icepack by wrapping a bag of frozen vegetables in a lightweight towel. Do not apply the icepack for more than 20 minutes each hour. 3.Wrap it. A loosely applied elastic bandage can help stabilize the ankle and can reduce swelling. 4.Elevate it. Lie with the leg on a pillow so that the ankle is above heart level. is will help with pain and swelling. 5.Call our office. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are important to a successful recovery Info provided by ACFAS
Information provided by The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons