MD Podiatrist Discusses Prevention of Recurrent Ankle Sprains

According to Dan Michaels, DPM, “Ankle sprains are a common injury, particularly among athletes and individuals who engage in physical activity. A sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. Recurrent ankle sprains can be a frustrating problem, but there are steps that can be taken to prevent them from happening again.”
 
 
“The first step in preventing recurrent ankle sprains is proper rehabilitation after an initial sprain. This typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (the R.I.C.E method) to reduce swelling and pain. Physical therapy is also an essential part of rehabilitation as it helps to regain strength and range of motion in the affected ankle. A physical therapist can also teach exercises to improve balance and proprioception, which can help prevent future sprains,” says Dr. Michaels.