Ankle Sprains

Ankle Sprains

Omar Saleem, MD, MsPT

Dr. Omar Saleem specializes in treating ankle sprains, a common injury that occurs when the ligaments surrounding the ankle are stretched or torn due to sudden twists, rolls, or impacts. Ankle sprains often affect athletes and active individuals, but they can happen to anyone.

Diagnosis

Dr. Saleem’s diagnostic approach includes:

  • Patient History: Reviewing how the injury occurred and assessing symptoms such as pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight.
  • Physical Examination: Checking for tenderness, bruising, and instability around the ankle joint.
  • Imaging Tests: In some cases, X-rays or MRIs may be used to rule out fractures or assess the severity of the ligament damage.

Treatment Options

Dr. Saleem provides both conservative and, in more severe cases, surgical treatments for ankle sprains:

  • Conservative Management: For mild to moderate sprains, he recommends:
    • Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE): To reduce swelling and promote healing.
    • Bracing or Splinting: Supporting the ankle to prevent further injury during recovery.
    • Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and stability, helping the ankle return to full function.
  • Surgical Treatment: In rare cases where the ligament damage is severe and does not respond to conservative treatments, surgery may be needed to repair the torn ligaments.

Rehabilitation and Prevention

Dr. Saleem emphasizes the importance of proper rehabilitation and preventive strategies:

  • Rehabilitation Programs: Focused on restoring strength and balance, tailored to the patient’s level of activity.
  • Preventive Measures: Educating patients on proper footwear, balance exercises, and ankle strengthening to reduce the risk of future sprains.