Foot and ankle injuries are some of the most common musculoskeletal injuries, often affecting not only people who participate in various athletic activities, but people who don’t as well.
Most Common Ankle Injuries
Here are the most common ankle injuries and tips to help you prevent them from happening in the future:
Ankle Sprains- This common injury occurs when ankle rolls, twists, or turns in an awkward way, often causing stretching or tearing of the ankle ligaments, causing swelling, pain, and limited range of motion on the ankle.
Ankle Fractures- This type of injury occurs when a person has one or more bones in the ankle joint, ranging from a small fracture, to larger or multiple fractures, which may require surgery.
Ankle Dislocation- This injury occurs when there is a sudden force in the ankle that causes it to flex outside of the ankle’s normal range of function, often times involving fractures in the ankle bone.
Achilles Tendon Rupture- This type of injury is commonly found in people who participate in physical activities that require movements, such as quickly speeding up or slowing down and pivoting, often causing a burning sensation or stiffness in the back of the heel and ankle.
Tips To Help Prevent An Ankle Injury
- Warm up before exercise. Many people tend to skip warming up before their run or work out, which can cause more harm than anything, especially to the feet and ankles.
- Wear the right shoes for your foot. This is perhaps the most important thing you should consider before performing any sort of sport or athletic activity. Since not every foot is the same, there are a variety of shoes designed with not only the activity it is for, but to provide effective support for that particular person.
- Replace your shoes. Many people tend to wear shoes that are worn down or worn out, which can lead to injuries, especially since your shoe is no longer providing the right amount of support.
- Prevent recurring injuries. Be sure to wear a brace or provide the right support, especially if you have suffered from previous foot or ankle injuries.
- Know your body. If you are experiencing any discomfort or pain, be sure to stop your activity as soon as possible, and seek the help of a foot and ankle specialist if your pain has not gone away with the proper care and treatment.
If are experiencing any ankle pain and need help with your foot or ankle injury, then contact Foot and Ankle Specialists of Illinois today!
