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Ankle traumas are rather complex; a severe strain can be a serious injury. Ankle sprains are classified according to the degree of injury. There are 3 grades:
- I Partial ligament tear
Symptoms: Mild swelling, mild to no ankle instability,mild to moderate pain, swelling and discoloration.
Treatment:
RICE
Rest
Ice : 20 minutes per hour while awake for 3 days, then as desired
Compression :
Ace wrap
Elevation : above the level of your heart (about a 30 degree elevation)
Maintain range of motion
Ankle support
- II Moderate impairment with incomplete ligament tear
Symptoms: severe swelling and discoloration, pain with bearing weight; need exam to confirm
Treatment: See above
- III Complete ligament tear
Symptoms: inability to walk; positive exam result
Treatment: Possibly surgery ; (best to consult a Podiatric foot and ankle surgeon)
Physical therapy If you have sustained an ankle sprain, it is best to consult a podiatrist. A physical exam combined with pertinent diagnostic tests can mean the difference between a good recovery an ongoing physical problems. This is not something you want to diagnose yourself.
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