Ankle pain is a common issue that can vary from mild to severe. People of all ages can experience it for several reasons. Sprains, fractures, arthritis, tendonitis, and Achilles tendon injuries are common causes of ankle pain. It is important to address your ankle pain immediately to ensure there are no long-term consequences. Below, you will discover how to treat ankle pain at home and when it is time to contact a medical professional.
How To Treat Ankle Pain
Ankle pain can impact your daily life in many ways. Addressing ankle pain at the first sign of complication is key. Consider the following methods for treating minimal to mild ankle pain.
Over-the-Counter Medication
Mild pain can be addressed with over-the-counter medication. Common non-prescription pain relievers include acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Both are effective in reducing pain and inflammation and can help temporarily alleviate pain. However, if the pain persists for more than a few days, it is time to contact a foot doctor in Oxnard. They can assess your ankle pain and provide you with a customized treatment plan.
RICE Method
A common and effective method for treating mild ankle pain is the RICE method. The RICE method includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation. More specifically, you should avoid putting weight on your ankle to prevent creating further damage. Apply a cold compress to your ankle for 15 minutes every few hours to reduce pain and swelling. If you have an elastic bandage, apply compression to reduce the swelling and provide support for your ankle. Be sure to be gentle when you apply the compression to avoid further injury. Lastly, elevate your foot above your heart as much as possible to reduce swelling. If your ankle pain does not subside within a few days, consult with a podiatrist right away.
Signs You Need to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Mild ankle pain can be dealt with using at-home remedies in some cases. However, more severe cases require intervention from a medical professional. If you experience any of the following, contact a podiatrist right away.
Severe or Persistent Pain
Intense ankle pain may be a sign of a severe sprain or fracture. If your pain does not get better after resting your ankle, it is time to call a medical professional. Professional treatment can help you avoid further injury and any long-term ankle-related issues.
Inability to Walk
If you are unable to walk, you should speak with a medical professional. Some people may experience tenderness when they walk. However, if you are unable to put weight on your ankle without severe, inhibiting pain, it is likely a sign that the ankle pain is due to a more serious injury.
Visible Deformities
If your ankle looks deformed or out of place, this is a sign of a serious injury. It is possible that your ankle has dislocated or is fractured. Immediate medical intervention is necessary to ensure your long-term health.
Ankle Pain Treatment
If you have persistent ankle pain that does not go away after a few days, it’s time to contact a medical professional. If the home remedies above do not work, more advanced ankle pain treatment is necessary. A skilled foot doctor can assess your ankle pain by doing a physical examination. They can also diagnose the issue based on your symptoms and the potential cause of the pain.
Common treatment options include medications, physical therapy, custom orthotics, and corticosteroid injections. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. Ankle pain can impact your daily life, so it is important to get treatment right away to prevent further injury. Foot & Ankle Concepts offers several treatment options for ankle pain. Contact their office today to schedule an appointment!
