What to Do in Case of Ankle Sprains
Slippery sidewalks in Manhattan can easily lead to an ankle sprain. At Goldsmith Podiatry, we want to give our patients some tips on how to handle this common injury. Below are the first three things you should do if you’ve taken a spill and believe you may have sprained your ankle:
Take Your Time Getting Up—falling usually comes as a surprise. Although your immediate, embarrassed inclination may be to get to your feet as quickly as possible or allow someone to help you right up it’s not the best option. Instead, take a moment to assess where you are experiencing pain and how severe it is. When you feel you can safely stand, roll to one side, and use your arms to help you slowly get up.
Seek Medical Attention Promptly—an ankle sprain occurs as the result of overstretching the ligaments that surround the ankle. You will likely experience pain, swelling and you may even hear a popping sound when the injury occurs. Ankle sprains are rated based on their severity. A sprain may also occur along with another injury such as a ligament tear, fracture, or dislocation. For this, reason it’s essential that you contact our Upper West Side office by calling: 212-877-1002 as soon as possible after your injury. Our podiatrists, Dr. Howard Goldsmith, Dr. Rosanna Troia, and Dr. Kristina Ruff will examine your ankle and order any imaging or other tests necessary to determine the severity and full extent of your injury. It’s important not to rely on your own assessment. It’s estimated that as many as 80% of untreated ankle sprains result in long-term ankle problems. Chronic ankle pain, instability, and weak ankles can leave you vulnerable for repeated sprains in the future.
Use the RICE Regimen—until you can get in for your appointment, the best home treatment for a sprain is Rest, Ice, Elevation, and Compression of the ankle. Try to stay off the injured foot as much as possible. Apply an ice pack or ice wrapped in a towel or bag (don’t put ice directly on the skin) and keep the ankle up above the level of your heart. A compression bandage will help keep the swelling in check.