When to Seek Treatment for an Ankle Sprain in Orange, CA?

At Renew Podiatry, we frequently treat patients suffering from ankle sprains, one of the most common injuries affecting the foot and ankle. Here are the common causes of an ankle sprain:

• Sudden Twisting or Turning: An abrupt twist or turn of the ankle while walking, running, or jumping can strain the ligaments, leading to a sprain.

• Uneven Surfaces: Walking or running on uneven terrain, such as trails, rocky paths, or curbs, can increase the risk of twisting the ankle.

• Sports Activities: High-impact sports like basketball, soccer, and tennis often involve sudden movements, changes in direction, and jumping, which can cause ankle sprains.

• Inadequate Footwear: Wearing shoes that do not provide proper support or fit, such as high heels or unsupportive athletic shoes, can increase the risk of spraining an ankle.

• Previous Ankle Injuries: Individuals who have previously sprained an ankle may be more prone to re-injury due to weakened or stretched ligaments.

• Lack of Warm-Up: Not properly warming up before physical activity can lead to muscle and ligament stiffness, making the ankle more susceptible to sprains.

• Overuse: Repetitive movements or prolonged activity without rest, particularly in athletes, can put excessive strain on the ankle, leading to injury.

• Weak or Imbalanced Muscles: Insufficient strength or imbalance in the muscles around the ankle can contribute to instability, increasing the risk of a sprain.

At Renew Podiatry, we understand that even everyday activities—such as missing a step or tripping over an object—can lead to a painful ankle sprain. If you experience swelling, pain, or difficulty walking after an ankle injury, our expert team can provide a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan to promote healing and help prevent future sprains.

At Renew Podiatry, we often see patients with ankle sprains, one of the most common foot and ankle injuries. Here are the common symptoms of an ankle sprain:

• Pain: Pain is typically felt around the ankle joint, especially when moving or bearing weight on the injured foot.

• Swelling: Swelling around the affected ankle is common, and it may worsen over time, especially after physical activity.

• Bruising: Discoloration or bruising may appear around the ankle, indicating that blood vessels have been damaged.

• Tenderness: The injured area may be tender to the touch, particularly along the ligaments.

• Limited Range of Motion: The ability to move the ankle may be reduced due to pain, swelling, and muscle stiffness.

• Instability: A feeling of weakness or instability in the ankle, especially when walking or standing, can be a sign of ligament damage.

• Warmth: The injured area may feel warm to the touch due to inflammation.

At Renew Podiatry, our specialists can assess your injury, rule out fractures, and provide a personalized treatment plan to help you recover safely and prevent future problems.

If you experience an ankle sprain and are unable to walk or bear weight on your injured ankle due to severe pain or instability, it’s important to seek professional care at Renew Podiatry. Significant swelling, bruising, or any noticeable deformity around the ankle may indicate a more serious problem, such as a fracture or torn ligament, and should be evaluated by our podiatric specialists.

If your pain doesn’t improve after a few days of home care, or if you continue to have persistent tenderness, stiffness, or difficulty moving your ankle, our team at Renew Podiatry can provide an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. You should also schedule an appointment if you notice numbness, tingling, or signs of infection such as redness, warmth, or fever. Prompt evaluation and treatment by our experienced podiatrists can help prevent complications and promote proper healing, so you can get back on your feet as quickly and safely as possible.

At Renew Podiatry, we see firsthand how important it is to properly treat ankle sprains. Failing to address a sprained ankle with the right care can lead to several short-term and long-term complications. Here are the risks of not treating an ankle sprain properly:

• Chronic Pain: Untreated sprains can lead to ongoing pain, which may persist long after the initial injury.

• Weakening of the Ankle: Failing to properly rest and rehabilitate the ankle can result in weakened ligaments and muscles, increasing the risk of future sprains.

• Instability: Improper treatment can lead to a feeling of instability in the ankle, making it difficult to perform everyday activities or engage in sports.

• Recurrent Sprains: Without proper healing, the ankle may be more susceptible to future sprains, creating a cycle of repeated injuries.

• Arthritis Development: Chronic instability and improper healing can increase the risk of developing post-traumatic arthritis in the affected ankle joint.

• Decreased Mobility: Untreated sprains may lead to limited range of motion, which can affect overall mobility and quality of life.

• Longer Recovery Time: Inadequately treated sprains may result in a longer recovery period, requiring more intensive treatments down the road.

• Potential for Severe Injury: Failing to treat an ankle sprain can lead to more serious complications, such as ligament tears or fractures, which may require surgical intervention.

Our team at Renew Podiatry is dedicated to helping you recover fully from ankle injuries and preventing these complications. If you’ve experienced an ankle sprain, prompt evaluation and a personalized treatment plan—which may include rest, bracing, physical therapy, and a gradual return to activity—are essential for long-term joint health.

If you’ve suffered an ankle sprain, seeking prompt treatment with Dr. Charles Baik at Renew Podiatry in Orange, CA, is crucial to ensure proper healing and avoid long-term complications. Dr. Baik specializes in diagnosing and treating ankle sprains with a personalized approach, helping patients recover faster and preventing future injuries. Whether you have a mild or severe sprain, Dr. Baik will provide a comprehensive evaluation to determine the best course of action for your recovery.

Dr. Baik uses the latest techniques and non-invasive treatments to address ankle sprains, focusing on reducing pain, restoring mobility, and strengthening the ankle. He will guide you through a tailored plan that includes appropriate therapies to ensure full recovery. With Dr. Baik’s expertise and commitment to your well-being, you can trust that your ankle will heal properly, getting you back on your feet and back to your active lifestyle.

For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 705 West La Veta Ave, Suite 109, Orange, CA 92868. We serve patients from Orange CA, Santa Ana CA, Tustin CA, Irvine CA, Anaheim CA, Westminster CA, Yorba Linda CA and surrounding areas.