If your foot lands incorrectly when you’re walking or playing a sport and you feel a sharp, sudden pain, you may have a sprained ankle. If you can, stop what you’re doing and inspect the joint for signs of a sprain. First, check for swelling. The area around the joint usually begins to swell up shortly after the injury occurs. Your skin may feel warm to the touch or even look red from the rush of blood to the area. Look for bruises as well. You may still be able to put weight on the ankle and walk around, though it will probably be uncomfortable to do so. If the pain is too severe to stand, don’t try—seek immediate medical assistance.
A sprained ankle involves the straining or tearing of the ligaments that support the joint and can result in chronic ankle weakness if not treated properly. If you are concerned that you have a sprain, don’t wait and allow the problem a chance to get worse. Contact the experts at Martin Foot and Ankle for an appointment or more information with offices in York, Hanover, Lancaster and Lititz, PA. Call (717) 757-3537 or visit our online contact page to do so.