The dreaded ankle sprain! Ankle sprains can happen in an instant, leaving you in a decent amount of pain. It can also be a nuisance if you are not able to put weight on the foot. This is where Casper physical therapy is here to help! A local physical therapist can help you expedite your recovery and get you back on your feet. 

Immediately After Injury

The first few minutes after spraining an ankle are crucial to a speedy recovery. When an ankle is sprained, it is because the ligaments have been stretched in an abnormal way. When those ligaments stretch or even tear, it can be quite painful. They are common when falling or if the ankle is twisted in a different direction. Upon suspecting you have sprained your ankle, proactive the “R.I.C.E.” method. RICE, which stands for “Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevate” are four steps to help you recover more quickly. Avoid putting any weight on the food and surround it with ice packs, frozen vegetables or anything similar that you have in 15 to 20 minute increments. This will reduce swelling. Compression is great to help reduce the area from overly adding inflammation. And last is elevate. When you sit with your foot elevated, you will keep blood from flowing in the area hence reducing any added swelling. 

Physical Therapy

Did you know that a premier physical therapist can help speed up your recovery time? Plus, when you do not recover property, it can lead you to many problems down the road. It is best to contact a top physical therapist within three days of the injury. They will help you create a plan custom to your injury for a quick and speedy recovery. These are exercises you can do in the comfort of your home and will greatly increase quality and strength in the area. From working on your range of motion to stretches, they will have you covered. 

Avoiding a Re-Injury

When it comes to sprains, the National Institutes of Health’s “Ankle sprain: pathophysiology, predisposing factors, and management strategies,” three-quarters of ankle sprains lead to re-injury or generalized chronic pain. Ensuring you handle your recovery and post recovery properly is key. This could help reduce that 75 percent, including your injury. A few other tips to avoid injuries include: 

• Invest in a good pair of supportive shoes
• Properly warm up before exercising
• Stay active
• Use a wrap if advised by a doctor or physical therapist
• Be cautious when walking, running, and going up or down stairs

When you are recovering from your own ankle injury, North Platte Physical therapy will be there every step of the way. Providing you a complete roadmap to a speedy recovery, our go-to techniques will help you speed things up. As the go-to expert of physical therapy treatments for ankle sprains, we will help you get back on your feet. With several locations, you can find one that is close and convenient for you. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and be on the road for a quick recovery!