Austin Ankle Sprain Doctor

As an ankle sprain doctor in Austin, TX understands, spraining your ankle is extremely common and will likely happen to most people in their lifetime. When it comes to sprained ankles, you may be wondering what you should do about them. Are there good preventative measures you should take? Should you always try to fix a sprained ankle at home or are there times when you should seek help from a medical professional? If you are dealing with a sprained ankle and are not sure of the steps you should take, reach out to Austin Physical Therapy to get the help you need. If a sprained ankle does not heal properly, it could cause you to become injured in the future.

What kinds of treatments can I do at home? 

Understandably, you probably want to know if there are treatments you can do at home to help your sprained ankle feel better and heal. An Austin, Texas ankle sprain doctor recommends the RICE method when you first get a sprained ankle.

• R. Rest! Do not walk around on your ankle and try to use walking aids, if possible, when you need to get up and move around.
• I. Ice your ankle and try to keep the ice there for about 20 minutes. Do this a few times a day.
• C. Compress the area around your ankle. You want to keep your ankle from moving around as much as possible. Always check to see that your blood is flowing to your feet when you compress your ankle.
• E. Elevate. You want to keep your ankle lifted up and relaxed, allowing it to rest at the same level as your heart. This elevation can help avoid swelling.

Why should I seek medical help? 

You may think that since sprained ankles are so common, you do not need medical attention. However, if you experience severe pain with your sprained ankle, an inability to put your weight on that ankle, or a popping sound when you sprain it, it is a good idea to see a doctor. Seeing a doctor can also ensure you are getting the care you need so that your ankle can heal properly. Without medical help, it is possible that your ankle will cause you problems in the future and that it could continue to get sprained again and again.

If you would like medical help after you sprained your ankle, look no further than Austin Physical Therapy. Our team is here to help you rest and recover. Call our ankle sprain doctor in Austin, Texas to learn more about our treatment plan for you.

Common Causes Of Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries treated by healthcare providers and can happen to anyone, regardless of age or fitness level. While some sprains result from sports, many occur during daily routines. When the ligaments around the ankle are stretched or torn, the result can be swelling, pain, and reduced mobility. Understanding how these injuries happen helps us take steps to avoid them and respond more quickly when they do occur.

Sudden Twists During Physical Activity

Many ankle sprains happen during sports or exercise. Quick changes in direction, jumping, or landing on an uneven surface can cause the ankle to roll inward or outward, stressing the ligaments. These types of movements are common in basketball, soccer, tennis, and running. Even those with strong conditioning can still experience a sprain if their foot lands in an unstable position. Working with an Austin ankle sprain doctor can be beneficial in identifying movement patterns that may increase the risk of re-injury.

Uneven Walking Surfaces

Walking or running on uneven ground, such as trails, gravel paths, or cracked pavement, increases the likelihood of rolling the ankle. A moment of lost balance can quickly lead to a sprain. This type of injury often happens while stepping off a curb, missing a step on a staircase, or walking on a slope. In Austin, ankle sprain doctor visits often increase when outdoor activity spikes, especially during hiking and event seasons.

Wearing Improper Footwear

The wrong footwear can play a major role in ankle injuries. Shoes without proper support or stability—like high heels, worn-out sneakers, or sandals—can make it easier for the foot to twist under pressure. Footwear that doesn’t match the activity, such as using casual shoes for sports or walking long distances in unsupportive soles, also adds to the risk. Proper footwear is a first line of defense when it comes to joint protection.

Previous Ankle Injuries

Once someone has experienced an ankle sprain, the chances of it happening again increase. Scar tissue, muscle weakness, and decreased joint stability all contribute to the likelihood of recurrence. Without proper recovery and rehab, the ligaments may not heal in a way that fully supports the joint. Seeing an Austin ankle sprain doctor allows us to evaluate past injuries and create a plan that focuses on restoring balance, strength, and flexibility.

Sudden Stops Or Falls

Stopping quickly or slipping while walking or running can lead to awkward landings that strain the ankle. This is especially true on wet floors, icy sidewalks, or loose rugs. Falls involving improper foot placement are among the most common reasons for ankle sprains in both home and work environments. These incidents may be preventable with more attention to surface traction and careful movement, but once the injury occurs, medical attention helps prevent further damage.

Get Physical Therapy From Us

Ankle sprains often happen in moments of distraction or unexpected movement, but they can be addressed with the right care and attention. At Austin Physical Therapy, we help people in the city of Austin recover from ankle injuries and reduce the chance of future problems. If you’ve experienced a sprain, an Austin ankle sprain doctor can work with you on a treatment plan designed to restore your mobility and support long-term recovery.