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Sports Medicine 4 min read

Ankle Sprain Treatment

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Dr. Nitin N Sunku
Oct 7, 2024

Ankle sprains are common but often misunderstood injuries. Whether you’re an athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or simply misstepped while walking, twisting your an

Introduction

Ankle sprains are common but often misunderstood injuries. Whether you’re an athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or simply misstepped while walking, twisting your ankle can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving around. The good news? With timely and expert care, you can recover fully and prevent it from happening again.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about ankle sprains—what causes them, what symptoms to look for, and most importantly, how you can recover quickly under the expert care of Dr. Nithin N, a leading Orthopaedic specialist in Bangalore.

What Is An Ankle Sprain?

An ankle sprain occurs when one or more of the ligaments in the ankle are stretched or torn. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that help stabilize your joints, especially when walking, running, or playing sports.

Types Of Ankle Sprains

  • Grade I (Mild): Slight stretching and microscopic tearing of ligament fibers.
  • Grade II (Moderate): Partial tearing of the ligament. Moderate pain and swelling.
  • Grade III (Severe): Complete tear of the ligament. Severe pain, swelling, and instability.

What Causes It?

  • Sudden twists while walking or running
  • Uneven surfaces or poor footwear
  • Accidental falls or missteps
  • Sports injuries (especially in football, basketball, or running)

Common Symptoms To Watch Out For

  • Sudden pain in the ankle after twisting
  • Swelling or bruising around the joint
  • Inability to put weight on the foot
  • Instability or a feeling like the ankle might “give out”
  • Popping sound at the time of injury

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important not to ignore them or try to “walk it off.” Prompt diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference.

Why Early Treatment Is Important

Many people think an ankle sprain will heal on its own. But untreated or poorly treated sprains can lead to long-term problems like chronic ankle instability, repeated injuries, or joint damage.

Early treatment not only reduces pain and swelling but also speeds up your return to daily activities and prevents future injuries. That’s why seeing a specialist like Dr. Nithin N is essential.

Expert Care By Dr. Nithin N

Dr. Nithin N is a highly experienced Orthopaedic doctor based in Bangalore, known for his personalized and patient-centric approach. He has successfully treated numerous ankle sprains, ranging from mild to severe cases.

What To Expect During Your Visit:

  • Thorough clinical examination and medical history
  • X-ray or MRI if needed to check for fractures or ligament tears
  • A clear diagnosis and customized treatment plan

Treatment Options May Include:

  • RICE Protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)
  • Pain relief medications (NSAIDs)
  • Ankle brace or support to stabilize the joint
  • Physiotherapy to restore mobility and strength
  • Balance training exercises to prevent future sprains
  • In rare cases, surgery for severe ligament tears

Recovery Tips At Home

While following your doctor’s treatment plan, here are a few home care tips to speed up healing:

  • Avoid putting weight on the injured ankle
  • Apply an ice pack for 15–20 minutes every 2–3 hours during the first 48 hours
  • Keep the ankle elevated when sitting or lying down
  • Wear supportive footwear
  • Follow physiotherapy routines consistently
Note: Don’t return to sports or high-impact activities too soon. Always follow your orthopaedic specialist’s advice.

Conclusion: Start Your Recovery The Right Way

An ankle sprain can feel limiting, but with the right care, you’ll be walking comfortably again in no time. Ignoring symptoms or delaying treatment can lead to long-term problems, so it’s best to act quickly.

If you’re suffering from an ankle injury, Dr. Nithin N is here to guide you every step of the way with expert diagnosis, tailored treatment, and compassionate care. Whether you need rest, therapy, or advanced treatment options, you’ll receive the best care to get back on your feet—stronger than before.

Dr. Nitin

About the Author

Dr. Nitin N Sunku is a leading Orthopedic Specialist and Team Doctor for Bengaluru FC. He is dedicated to helping patients recover from sports injuries and joint pain through evidence-based care.

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