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The response to the question below was authored by Marc Mitnick DPM

Sprained ankle

by Morgan
(South Wales)

Sprained my ankle about 5 weeks ago. Had to be helped off the field of play as it was very painful straight afterwards. By the next day after proper RICE treatment I didnt think it was a particualrly bad as I was walking on the foot, was still a little painful to walk on for a few days however. Decided to play again on the foot the following weekend, and overstreched the injury again according to the physio. This caused more discomfort in the long run compared to the initial injury as I was limping on the foot for 4-5 days after wards. I decided to take a bit of time off training and followed some strengthing exercises given to me along with the RICE treatment. Started training on the foot again 2 weeks afterwards with heavy strapping as it was still a little sore although the strength in my ankle had improved drastically. 2 weeks on my ankle is still sore and after training on it last night I think I over done it a little, I can't remember a particular time when I hurt it but when I got home it was worse than usual and swollen ( not as swollen as when initailly done but a little swollen over the ankle bone). I don't know what to do as I do not want to seem unreliable and negative towards taking a chance in my

sport but my ankle is still sore. And to add to what I said earlier when training on it I havnt been able to plant the ball of my foot with real intent whilst sprinting because of the injury instead having to run on my heel. Any advice would be appreciated, is it ok to train on or should I still be resting it as I have only followed what the physios have told me. Thanks

RESPONSE

Hi Morgan,

My best advice would be to follow the advice of medical people who can actually examine your foot and ankle and therefore offer better advice than someone on the other side of the internet.
Having said that, in general, it sounds like you are getting better, but every time you try and put the foot and ankle to the "test" you are having problems. Obviously, you are not ready to resume full training.
In light of that, I would recommend physical therapy in an effort to rehab. the injured area and get you back up to speed. That along with immobilization when walking should get the foot and ankle back in shape quicker than repeatedly re-injuring the ankle every time you go out and train. Keep in mind, that every time you re-injure the ankle you end up doing more damage to the damaged ligaments and this in turn further delays your recovery period.

Marc Mitnick DPM
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Feb 28, 2012
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sprained ankle lesson 101
by: Anonymous

OMG! I sprained my ankle and tried to do the same thing. Walking on it and cleaning my house. Ridiculous.! But I was told not to baby it by my husband. Exercise it! Strengthen it. Otherwise it may stiffen up. Okay. Sounded good. NOT!!! What I should have done from the start is exactly what the doctor stated. Rest and immobilize it when walking. That's what was happening is I was re-injuring it. Lesson learned! Listen to the doctor! Shoulda known better !

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Wonderful advice

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