How is a Sprained Ankle Diagnosed?

An ankle sprain is an injury that occurs when you twist or turn your ankle in an abnormal way. There are ligaments that hold your ankle bones together, preventing excessive movement of the joints. When the twist happens, tissues or ligaments that hold your ankle bones together stretch, thus causing them to tear. When your ankle joint moves excessively, it causes an ankle sprain. This condition results in pain, which may limit you from doing your daily chores. Naperville ankle sprain is a health care center that provides treatment for an ankle sprain. Below is how an ankle sprain can be diagnosed.

Diagnosis of ankle sprain

  An ankle sprain can be diagnosed in several ways. Before getting into the internal part of your foot, your doctor will examine the outer part first. Your physician will touch the foot to check the presence of physical injuries that bring tissue inflammation. The doctor will then turn your foot to identify the range of movement and the amount of pain you feel. After examination, you may go through the following scans.

• CT scan. A CT scan may be used to reveal the structure of your joint. The CT scan machine produces a three-dimensional picture that can be viewed from different angles. This helps your doctor to identify the place of complication much easily.

• X-ray. X-ray is the most used type of diagnosis in the medical field. It makes use of X-rays to produce a picture of the affected area. Fractures can also be seen through an X-ray.

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Magnetic resonance imaging makes use of magnetic fields and computer technology to produce a three-dimensional image. Using the image generated, your doctor can clearly see the position of your ankle bones and the damaged ligaments.

• Ultrasound. This technique uses sound waves that are passed through the ankle to generate a real-time image. Your doctor uses the image to make judgments on your ankle bones and ligaments. The below paragraph shows how an ankle sprain can be treated.

How can an ankle sprain be treated?

The treatment of an ankle sprain depends on its severity. The aim of the treatment is to restore the functionality of the ankle by reducing pain and inflammation and healing the tendons. For severe ankle sprain, you can see a musculoskeletal specialist for treatment. For non-severe ankle sprain, the RICE method may help you recover quickly.

• Rest. Avoid movements that may cause inflammation and discomforts.

• Ice. Ice your ankle for 15 minutes. The ice helps to reduce pain and also allows the ligaments to heal faster.

• Compression. Compressing your ankle using a bandage helps prevent your foot from moving, thus facilitating healing.

• Elevation. Elevating your foot helps to reduce inflammation and drain excess fluid from your ankle.

An ankle sprain is common to many people across the world. It is vital to seek medical attention for diagnosis since damaged ligaments can cause a lot of pain and discomfort. American Foot & Ankle Specialists are the best in dealing with ankle sprains and other musculoskeletal conditions.