With the 2012 season of the NFL opening this week, expect to see an increase in the number of sports-related injuries in the news. Already on opening day, the quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals, John Skelton, had to be carried off the field due to an ankle injury. Reports indicate that the injury is an ankle sprain, one of the most common ankle injuries. An ankle sprain is damage to the ligaments of the ankle, the soft tissue structures that keep the joint together. It is important to have an ankle injury evaluated so that the best course of treatment can be determined.

 If you think you have an ankle sprain, make an appointment with any of our foot doctors in our Troy office for evaluation. Signs of an ankle sprain include pain, bruising, and swelling. If it is determined that you have an ankle sprain, your doctor will likely recommend that you rest your ankle, and may place a bandage on it for support. Me or one of our doctors may also recommend that you ice the injury in 15 minute intervals several times a day, as well as keep the ankle elevated.

 As with many sports injuries, prevention is the key. Footwear that has good heel support will help prevent the ankle from rolling inwards. Running on solid, level surfaces gives you the most support and will help prevent falls. Lastly, make sure to warm up before doing any vigorous exercise. By following these steps you will hopefully prevent not only ankle injuries, but other sports related injuries that affect the leg and foot.

 Jeff Carlson, DPM