Suffering from ankle pain? Have you tried everything under the sun to get relief? Unfortunately, when treatments fail, it is usually time for ankle ligament surgery to finally find relief from chronic ankle pain.
Home Remedies
Ankle pain isn’t uncommon. In fact, a little less than half of the country suffers from it. That is why there are so many treatment options you can try at home to find relief.
Rest, ice applications, compression, and elevation are all things that you can practice at home.
Of course, rest is the most important because sometimes your pain is minor and you simply need some time off of your ankle. Spend a few days off of your ankle and then slowly start adding in light activity.
Ice applications will also help with pain and swelling. You can ice your ankle 3-5 times a day for about 20 minutes. Just remember to use 90-minute breaks between icing sessions and use a towel between the ice and leg.
Compression bandages will also help with swelling and pain. Plus, it will help you get around easier. Continue to do this until the swelling is gone.
Anytime you are resting, be sure to keep your leg elevated. You want your ankle above the heart level. This is especially important at night while you are sleeping.
Ankle Fractures
When these home remedies don’t seem to do the trick, the next answer is treatment options or even surgery from a trusting podiatrist.
An ankle fracture is one of the most common ankle issues that usually requires a more aggressive form of treatment. It all depends on the severity of the fracture if you suffered a partial or complete break of the bone.
Even if you think your ankle is sprained, it is best to visit a podiatrist to get a proper diagnosis and find out just how severe your injury is. If you tend to leave the injury untreated, it could lead to more significant problems.
Ankle Ligament Surgery
Do you have a severe ankle sprain or fracture? Ankle ligament reconstructive surgery might be the answer for you.
This surgery will help restore the stability of the ankle and is usually recommended after no improvement after 6 months of non-surgical treatment.
The Brostrom Gould technique happens to be one of the most effective options. Stitches and anchors are placed in the fibula bone to tighten the ankle ligaments. Next, dissolving stitches are used and a splint is applied after surgery for stability. Once the swelling goes down, a cast is typically worn for about 4 weeks. However, you won’t be able to put weight on your foot for about 6 weeks. After all is said and done, physical therapy will be needed throughout the recovery process. You can expect full recovery to take 6 to 12 months.
This is a pretty extreme surgery that of course comes with risks, just like any surgery. But with the right surgeon, the risk is well worth it. Most patients see relief after surgery, without having to worry about pain ever returning.
The Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona
Taylor from Desoto Central Market was experiencing chronic ankle pain. After much thought, she decided to visit the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona to receive ankle ligament surgery. About 8 months later she couldn’t be happier with her results and experience.
The Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona offers cutting edge podiatry to help you find the relief you need with positive influence. Specializing in ankle ligament surgery and other treatment options, the Arizona Foot and Ankle Centers will provide you with only the finest foot and ankle care to get you back on your feet.
