Do I Need Physical Therapy for my Ankle Sprain or Twist?

Many people suffer from the pain of a twisted ankle. Officially known as an ankle sprain, it is one of the most common injuries today; however, not all ankle sprains are the same. While some people can recover on their own, more severe sprains often need prompt medical attention to ensure a full and speedy recovery.

What is an ankle sprain?

The foot and ankle are made up of 28 bones that all work together. Our ligaments are bands of connective tissue that help stabilize these bones to one another. An ankle sprain occurs when those ligaments are stretched more than they can handle, which results in an injury.

Sprains are graded on a scale. The least serious are Grade 1 sprains, where the ligament is still intact. The most serious are Grade 3 sprains where there is tearing of one or more ligaments. A medical professional, such as a physical therapist, can help evaluate the extent of the injury by measuring pain, swelling, range of motion, balance, and by performing special tests directly to the ligaments.

How do I know if I need physical therapy?

When in doubt, you should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Early treatment can help speed up recovery and rule out additional injury, such as an ankle fracture.

If at any time after spraining your ankle you are unable to take at least four steps on that foot, you should consult with a medical professional immediately as x-rays may be needed.

Another important sign to look out for is bony tenderness. While this sometimes occurs with a sprain, tenderness over a bone can also be a sign of fracture. It can be very difficult to accurately assess without training, so it is always best to be examined by a healthcare professional in case x-rays are needed.

Grade 1 sprains often heal well on their own, while Grade 2 or Grade 3 sprains often need medical attention for proper healing. On average, people with a Grade 1 sprain report a full recovery within a week. As such, if your symptoms last longer than a week, you should see a healthcare provider.

Chronic Ankle Instability

Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is another reason you may need physical therapy. Regardless of the severity of the initial sprain, some individuals can have chronic ankle instability even months after the injury. In these cases, patients continue to report that their ankle buckles or that they feel unsteady on it. Thankfully, physical therapy can help. A physical therapist can help create a personalized program to strengthen the supporting muscles, improve balance and agility, and reduce any remaining swelling.

Should you or someone you know need help recovering from an ankle sprain, you can visit a physical therapist at Sheltering Arms without a doctor’s visit first through our Direct Access program. To make an appointment, click here or call (804) 764-1000.

References:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4780668/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7745493/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18374692/

Share This Post:

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
RehaBlog

More Posts

Heat vs. Ice – Which is Better for Your Pain?

Are you experiencing pain or swelling, but are unsure if you should reach for an ice pack or a heating pad to find relief? Choosing the right therapy can help relieve discomfort and promote healing. Learn when to apply cold or heat to get the best results.

Coping with Anxiety After A Stroke

It’s common for stroke survivors and their family members to feel anxious after a stroke. So much changes so suddenly. As a stroke survivor myself, I certainly experienced anxiety: in the hospital, at the rehab center, and after I returned home. Not only were my physical and mental abilities different, but my family had to adjust as well. From coping with uncertainty to rebuilding daily routines, learn how to manage post-stroke anxiety and regain a sense of control.

Physical Therapy vs. Physical Rehabilitation – What’s the Difference?

When we think of physical rehabilitation, many people aren’t aware of all the different therapies and treatments that it includes. People often associate physical therapy and physical rehabilitation as one and the same; however, physical therapy is actually under the umbrella of physical rehabilitation. So, what is the difference between the two, and what are the different types of physical rehabilitation?

Complete vs. Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury

Have you or someone you know had a medical event that resulted in a spinal cord injury? A spinal cord injury can dramatically impact movement, sensation, and daily life. Learn about the different types of injuries, how they’re classified, and how rehabilitation can support recovery.

Sore Arm from a Shot? Here’s What to Do

Arm soreness after a flu shot or vaccine is a common side effect that can make movement uncomfortable. Learn simple exercises that may help reduce the pain and speed up recovery.

Start your Journey

Learn more about Sheltering Arms Institute

Contact a specialist at Sheltering Arms Institute to learn more about how you can gain more freedom in your everyday life.