Dr. Mayer  Salama
Dr. Daniel Salama
Dr. Brendan Johnson

Dearborn MI- (313) 274-0990

Trenton MI- (734) 675-2440

Clarkson MI- (248) 625-1110

Farmington MI- (248) 474-0040

House Calls- (248) 474-0040

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Ankle Sprain Equals No Gain

We are in full Spring swing and injuries are hovering over the ball fields, playgrounds, hiking trails and tracks. It is so easy to twist your ankle while you are getting back to outdoor activity from a long winter break. Look for swelling and bruising directly after your fall or twist, as they are the first and most prevalent signs that you have sprained your ankle. 

Treatment for such an injury is primarily rest but elevation and ice are key solutions to healing along with supportive bandaging. Preventative measures can also be taken to avoid ankle sprains by strengthening and stretching regularly. However, there are three levels of a sprain that you should know about.

Level 1 Sprain ~ Mild symptoms with little pain and almost no swelling. There may be some stiffness and slight difficulty in walking. Ligaments are usually stretched more than torn and should heal rather quickly.

Level 2 Sprain ~ Moderate to severe pain with more difficulty walking or playing sports. Minor bruising and swelling will develop as the ankle becomes more stiff and unstable to walk on. This level injury could take up to two months to heal.

Level 3 Sprain ~ Extreme symptoms will mean there is a torn or ruptured ligament. The onset of pain is more immediate and the ankle will feel very weak along with swelling and bruising. This level of injury should be treated right away and will require x-rays to make sure the bones are not broken.  Unfortunately, this sprain will take up to three or more months to heal properly.

PRICE is a great acronym to remember when it comes to a sprained ankle:

  • Protection of the injured area is important to stop the damage in its tracks.
  • Rest is one of the most effective components since the body knows how to heal on its own.
  • Ice is widely known and used for acute injuries but should only be applied for 15 minutes at most.
  • Compression is good right after the injury and should be applied for the first 24 to 48 hours.
  • Elevation is the final principal but also important since it helps reduce swelling.

Dr. Mayer Salama and Dr. Daniel Salama have offices in Dearborn, Farmington Hills, Clarkston and Trenton Michigan for your convenience and can be reached at 313-274-0990 to schedule an appointment. If you think you may have sprained your ankle do not delay, spring awaits you!

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