What is a foot sprain?

A sprain is a condition that occurs when the ligaments of your foot develop tears. These tears can occur when your ligaments stretch too far when you’re running or during a fall, or if you trip over an object.

You can also develop sprains in the ligaments of your ankle due to the same types of injuries.

What are the symptoms of a foot sprain?

Foot sprains can cause pain that develops soon after your injury. You may also develop symptoms like:

• Bruising
• Swelling
• Tenderness

In serious sprains, you may not be able to put any weight on your foot, making it difficult to walk or stand for any amount of time.

What are the methods for diagnosing foot sprains?

When rest and over-the-counter pain relievers aren’t enough to alleviate pain or improve your mobility, your podiatrist recommends an evaluation of your foot or ankle as soon as possible.

During your exam, your podiatrist checks the affected area for signs of swelling and bruising. They discuss the activities you were doing at the time of your injury and evaluate the severity of your pain.

To rule out other issues, like a foot or ankle fracture, your podiatrist may request imaging tests, like an X-ray or CT scan. Based on your diagnosis, they create a treatment plan to alleviate your pain and ensure you heal properly.

What treatments are available for foot sprains?

Initially, Foot & Ankle Premier Specialists may recommend anti-inflammatories and pain relievers to keep you comfortable. You may need to limit your activities for a period of time, especially high-impact exercise and sports.

Ice therapy can help reduce swelling and pain. Getting plenty of rest also helps your ligaments heal.

For moderate to serious sprains, you may need to wrap your foot or ankle with a bandage to stabilize the ligaments and protect you from additional injury. Foot & Ankle Premier Specialists can also work with you to prevent future sprains during your usual activities. 

If you suspect you have a foot or ankle sprain, don’t wait to schedule an evaluation. You can call the office nearest you today or use the online booking feature to request a consultation.