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Working With An Orthopedist

A few years ago, I decided to take up running. I was bad at it at first, but after a few months, I got more comfortable. Unfortunately, right when I got good at running, I developed a bad pain in my left foot. At first, I decided to push past the pain, but it quickly became excruciating. I realized that it might be a good idea to talk with a doctor about my problem, and so I met with an orthopedist. He carefully watched my gait as I ran, and he decided to take some images to check out my bone health. It turned out that I had developed a stress fracture, and my doctor recommended surgery. This blog is all about ways that an orthopedist can help you, so that you can enjoy your hobbies.

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Working With An Orthopedist

4 Interesting Facts About Ankle Sprains

by Jessie Hawkins

Whether hurt while playing a sport or injured while walking at home, an ankle sprain can be a painful, immobilizing issue. The swelling is not only uncomfortable and unattractive, but the sprain can reduce your ability to walk, stand, and complete simple daily task. While it is common, most people do not fully understand the development and treatment of this injury. Here are a few interesting facts about a sprained ankle.

Most Injured Joint

Most people are surprised to learn the ankle is the most commonly sprained joint in the entire body. Ankle sprains are also the most common musculoskeletal injury among athletes and sedentary people.

An estimated 2 million ankle sprains occur each year in the United States, so chances are high that you may also suffer from this painful injury.

Ligaments Are Also Injured

A great deal of stress and pressure is placed on the ankle joint, resulting in swelling and inflammation. These are common symptoms that the ankle is sprained. However, the abnormal twisting that usually causes the sprain will also twist the connecting ligaments.

In some instances, the excessive twisting of the ligaments will cause them to rip. This painful damage may require surgical repair.

Avoid Heat Therapy

Many people know when and if they have sprained their ankle, so they may believe they know the best option for healing their injury. Placing a heating pad on the injured ankle is a common treatment, but this can actually do more harm than good.

Heat increases blood circulation, which will cause even more swelling and inflammation to the ankle. Due to this risk, it is best to hold a cold pack on the ankle until you are able to see a doctor. The ice will not only decrease your swelling and inflammation, but it will also numb the injured ankle.

Prevention Is Possible

Accidents are a part of life, so completely avoiding ankle sprains is not possible. However, you can reduce your risk of spraining your ankle.

Be sure to wear shoes that fit properly. Your feet are imperative parts of your body's structure and base. Since they act as your foundation, you should wear shoes that are comfortable and sturdy. Loose shoes, tight shoes, and even high heels may cause your foot to move in abnormal ways. This may result in you twisting your ankle to gain support.

Pay attention while walking, as well. Do not use your phone or try to juggle multiple parcels while walking. Lack of attention could cause you to slip on or trip over an object.

Ankle sprains may be common, but most people do not fully understand this injury. With this guide and the help of a foot and ankle doctor, you will understand a few interesting facts about the ankle sprain. 

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