"Rehabilitation Blog for Solo Practice"

Introduction Ankle sprains are common injuries that occur while walking, running, or playing sports like basketball and soccer. Most ankle sprains involve stretching or tearing of the ligaments on the outer side of the ankle. If not treated properly, chronic instability can develop, sometimes requiring surgery. Proper care after an injury is crucial for maintaining a healthy ankle. Let’s go over the essential steps to manage an ankle sprain effectively. 1. Apply Ice Packs When you sprain your ankle, pain and swelling occur immediately. Applying an ice pack to the injured area can help reduce inflammation and swelling. Ice therapy also constricts blood vessels, minimizing internal bleeding, and provides a numbing effect to reduce pain and muscle spasms. How to Use Ice Packs: Ice packs are most effective within the first 48 hours of injury. Apply ice for 20 minutes every 2 hours. Do not apply ice directly to the skin; wrap it in a...

Understanding Ankle Sprains and Ligament Damage A sprained ankle commonly refers to a partial or complete tear of the ankle ligament. In many cases, people do not experience severe symptoms even without treatment. However, if the ligament heals in a stretched state, ankle stability decreases. This instability increases the likelihood of reinjury when walking on uneven surfaces or engaging in sports activities. Repeated ankle sprains can lead to cartilage damage, which may result in arthritis. In severe cases, ankle replacement or fusion surgery may be required. However, before reaching that stage, ligament reconstruction surgery can help restore normal joint function. 1. Rehabilitation After Lateral Ankle Ligament Surgery (Immobilization Period) After surgery, a cast is usually worn for about four weeks. During this period, inactivity can lead to significant muscle loss and decline in muscle function. Therefore, it is important to engage in exercises even while wearing the cast. Since ...