Injuries

Foot and Ankle Injuries

The most commonly reported injuries in the foot/ankle region are ankle sprains. A sprained ankle simply means that the ligaments (the strong bands of tissue that connect the bones of the foot) are stretched beyond their normal limits, resulting in inflammation, tearing, or rupture of the tissue.

Sprained ankles run the gamut from minor to serious. If you're in pain for more than a day or two, or if the pain is intense, you should see a physical therapist or physician. If physical therapy is required, the sprained ankle may be immobilized for a short period to prevent further damage and to give the tissue a chance to heal. After that, therapy progresses quickly with exercises designed to restore stability and strength to the muscles. It is also crucial that the patient's sense of balance be restored or enhanced through exercise.

Physical therapists may choose from an array of options in treating you, including exercises for flexibility, stability, balance, strength, coordination, and restoration of range of motion, as well as massage, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, heat or cold. These tools allow the physical therapist to create a program of rehabilitation that is custom-designed for your particular problem. In addition, the physical therapist may consult with other health care practitioners to provide special, braces, supports, casts, or shoe inserts.

To avoid or overcome a foot or ankle problem you may need to modify your current level of physical activity, whether it involves work, recreation, or both. Once your physical therapy goals are met, your physical therapist will help you continue therapy on your own with a home program designed to fit your needs. The goal of physical therapy is to return you to normal activity as quickly as possible, with the knowledge you need to prevent reinjury.

"RICE"--which stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation-- is shorthand for the steps you can take immediately (up to 2-3 days) following a foot or ankle injury. Remember: RICE is not a substitute for professional care; it is a way to reduce the risk of further injury until you can see your physical therapist of physician.

1.  Rest: Stay off your feet if you can and take it easy.

2. Ice: Fill a plastic bag with ice or wrap ice in a towel. Gently place  the ice over the affected area in a 20-minute on, 40-minute off cycle.

3. Compression: Lightly wrap the injured area with a compression bandage. Make sure the bandage is not too tight.

4. Elevation: To reduce swelling and pain, sit in a position that elevates your foot higher than your waist.