Ankle sprains are among the most common injuries people experience. Whether you’re an athlete, someone who enjoys regular physical activity, or simply moving about during your daily life, a quick misstep can lead to a painful sprain. But while a sprain may seem like a minor injury, it requires careful attention from the Orthopedic Hospital in Abu Dhabi to heal properly and prevent reinjury.
Here, we’ll explore what causes ankle sprains, how to manage the injury, and what you can do to prevent it from happening again. By following these steps recommended by Orthopedic Doctor in Abu Dhabi, you can recover faster and ensure your ankle stays strong.
What Is an Ankle Sprain?
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn due to a sudden twist or roll of the foot. These ligaments are bands of tissue that help stabilize the ankle joint. When they are injured, the ankle becomes less stable, leading to pain, swelling, and limited movement.
Mild: A slight stretching of the ligaments with minor tearing.
Moderate: Partial tearing of the ligament, resulting in more severe pain and swelling.
Severe: A complete tear of the ligament, leading to significant instability, swelling, and sometimes the inability to put weight on the affected foot.
Common Symptoms of an Ankle Sprain
- Pain when trying to move the ankle or walk.
- Swelling around the ankle.
- Bruising or discoloration.
- Tenderness to the touch.
- Difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot.
- Reduced range of motion in the ankle.
If you suspect that you have an ankle sprain, it’s important to treat it right away. Proper care from the best hospital in Abu Dhabi ensures faster recovery and reduces the chance of reinjury.
How to Prevent Your Ankle Reinjury?
#1. Strengthen Your Ankle
Building strength in the muscles around your ankle will provide more support to the joint. Simple exercises, such as ankle circles, calf raises, and resistance band exercises, can improve stability. Adding these exercises into your routine will make your ankle stronger and more resistant to injury.
#2. Improve Your Balance
Good balance can help you avoid awkward movements that lead to sprains. One of the best ways to enhance balance is through exercises like standing on one foot. You can start by holding onto a wall for support, and as you improve, try balancing without assistance.
#3. Wear Proper Footwear
Shoes that offer proper support and fit well are essential for preventing ankle sprains. Choose shoes with good ankle support, especially if you engage in activities like running or hiking. High-top shoes or athletic shoes designed for your sport can make a significant difference. For sports that involve quick direction changes, such as basketball or tennis, consider using ankle braces or taping to provide additional stability.
#4. Warm Up Before Activity
Whether you’re about to play a sport, exercise, or go for a jog, warming up is essential to prepare your muscles and joints. A proper warm-up increases blood flow to your muscles, making them more flexible and reducing the chance of injury. A warm-up could include light cardio (like jogging or jumping jacks), followed by dynamic stretches that mimic the movements of your activity.
#5. Listen to Your Body
One of the most important ways to avoid reinjury is to listen to your body. If your ankle feels sore or unstable, give it time to rest and seek the guidance of Orthopedic specialists from the hospital in Khalifa City. Pushing yourself too hard, too soon after an injury, can lead to a setback. Gradually return to full activity levels and give your ankle time to regain strength and flexibility.
Recovery Tips to Speed Up Your Ankle Healing Process
The time it takes to recover from an ankle sprain can vary depending on the severity of the injury. A mild sprain may take a few weeks, while a severe sprain could take several months to heal completely. Here are some tips from the Orthopedic in Abu Dhabi to ensure a smooth recovery:
#1. Physical Therapy
Engaging with a physical therapist can significantly accelerate your recovery. A therapist from a top hospital in Abu Dhabi can design personalized exercises to help strengthen your ankle, enhance your balance, and restore full range of motion.
#2. Gradual Return to Activity
Gradually increase the intensity of your physical activity without rushing back into your usual routine. Start with low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling before returning to high-impact sports.
#3. Use Supportive Gear
Even after the pain reduces, consider wearing an ankle brace or supportive footwear when engaging in sports or activities that put stress on your ankle.
#4. Stay Consistent with Exercises
Continue performing strengthening and balancing exercises even after your ankle feels better. This will reduce the risk of reinjury and help you maintain strong ankles.
#5. Monitor Swelling
Keep an eye on any lingering swelling. If the swelling does not go away or if you experience pain that worsens, consult a doctor at an Orthopedic Clinic in Abu Dhabi to ensure there isn’t a more serious issue.
How Can Tarmeem Hospital in Abu Dhabi Help with Ankle Sprains?
At Tarmeem Orthopedic and Spine Specialty Hospital in Abu Dhabi, our expert team of orthopedic doctors and general practitioners in Abu Dhabi specialize in treating ankle sprains and preventing reinjury. With personalized treatment plans that include advanced diagnostics, physical therapy, and rehabilitation programs, we help patients recover faster and regain strength.
Our state-of-the-art facilities and experienced specialists ensure that every patient receives the best care possible, whether it’s for a mild sprain or a more severe injury. At Tarmeem Hospital, we are committed to helping you get back on your feet safely and quickly.
