Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains are common injuries that can cause pain ranging from mild to severe. At Kingspoint Foot and Ankle Specialists, Benjamin Tehrani, DPM, DABPM,  diagnoses and treats ankle sprains at offices in Beverly Hills and Downtown Los Angeles, California. He also performs reconstructive rearfoot and ankle surgery for severe sprains that include one or more torn ligaments. If you think you have a sprained ankle, call the office or book an appointment online today.

What is an ankle sprain?

An ankle sprain can happen when you roll or twist your ankle in a way that stretches the ligaments that stabilize the joint beyond their means. Ligaments are bands of tissue that hold your bones together. 

Ankle sprains are categorized based on how much damage the ligaments sustain. A mild sprain involves slight stretching and microscopic tears of the ligament fibers. A moderate sprain is a partial tear of a ligament that causes ankle instability. A severe sprain involves a completely torn ligament that causes significant pain and swelling in the ankle.  

What are the symptoms of an ankle sprain?

Ankle sprain symptoms vary depending on the severity of your injury but may include:

• Ankle pain, especially when bearing weight
• Tenderness to the touch
• Limited range of motion
• Swelling and bruising
• Ankle instability
• Popping sound or sensation (indicates a torn ligament)

Symptoms of an ankle sprain can be confused for other problems that cause pain, such as an Achilles tendon injury. If you suspect an ankle sprain, call KingsPoint Foot and Ankle Specialists for an accurate diagnosis. 

What causes ankle sprains?

Anyone can get an ankle sprain from walking on an uneven surface or suffering a fall that causes your ankle to twist. Ankle sprains are also common sports injuries, especially in sports that involve jumping and changing directions while running, like basketball and soccer. 

How are ankle sprains diagnosed and treated?

First, Dr. Tehrani carefully examines your foot and ankle to check for tenderness and limited range of motion. He may also take imaging tests, such as:

• X-ray to rule out a broken bone
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan to evaluate for ligament tears
• Physical Examination in the clinic

A non-contrastMRI can reveal the extent of damage to the ligament and help. Our team at KINGSPOINT Foot & Ankle Specialists will create a personalized treatment plan. Most ankle sprains resolve with nonsurgical treatments, such as:

• Rest, ice compression, and elevation (RICE)
• Immobilization in a CAM walking boot
• MLS Infrared laser therapy 
• Physical therapy
• McKesson ankle brace
• Crutches 

If your ankle pain persists despite conservative treatments, Dr. Tehrani may recommend surgery followed by immobilization and a rehabilitation plan. He performs the most advanced procedures, including minimally invasive arthroscopic and reconstructive ankle surgery. 

Call KINGSPOINT Foot and Ankle Specialists, or book an appointment online today for the highest-quality care for ankle sprains. 

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