How to Treat High Ankle Sprain
A high ankle sprain is the type of sprain that you never want to end up with. It's similar to a normal ankle sprain only located higher up and extends from the top of the ankle and into the lower leg. It is not common, but if you get one be prepared for a long painful rehab.
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Instructions
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Like other sprains the high ankle sprain should be treated immediately for quicker recovery. It's a mistake to blow it off because it's just a sprain. I have actually heard people say," Oh it's just a sprain I'll mess with it later." Trust me, the best time to mess with it is now!
The reason for concern is that you never know how serious the sprain is. There is 1st degree, 2nd degree, 3rd degree and then there's the dreaded syndesmosis sprain which is the high ankle sprain.
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The first thing anyone needs to do when they feel as if they have twisted or sprained an ankle is sit down and take weight off of it. Next you need to get ice on it as fast as possible. The sooner you act the better, this one action can take days or weeks off recovery time when you ice the injury asap.
Ice the ankle no longer than 15-20 minutes at a time and try to not place ice directly on skin. In addition, elevate the leg above the heart whenever possible. Then last of all wrap ankle snug, but not tight and not for long periods of time.
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If you suspect that it really is a high ankle sprain then there will be more to do than rest, ice, elevation and compression. When the sprain is higher up it is more difficult to treat and takes upwards to six months to heal. First, you need a correct diagnosis and this means medical treatment and a real doctor.
Special x-rays with stress views need to be done or possibly an MRI to know for sure. Please note that a high ankle sprain is very serious business and if not treated properly can result in need for surgery.
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Treatments may include physical therapy with the use of massage, electrical stimulation and special exercises as well as stretches designed to improve coordination, joint motion, strength and mobility. Additionally, crutches and a boot or brace may need to be used for several weeks.
Anti-inflammatory drugs may be needed for pain and inflammation at least in the beginning. However, it's best to not take them for extended periods, since they can create upset stomach, intestinal problems and other side effects.
Finally, whatever you do don't take a high ankle sprain lightly or you could end up with reoccurring ankle pain and leg problems for the rest of your life.
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