Every year, more than 1 million Americans visit the emergency room due to ankle injuries. At Denver Metro Orthopedics, P.C., John Schwappach, MD, works with adults and teens to diagnose and treat ankle injuries using safe, effective means. To make an appointment at the office in Englewood or Aurora, Colorado, call the nearest location to speak with a team member or book online today.
Ankle injuries occur when your ankle joint is twisted, fractured, or stretched beyond its normal range of motion. Though they’re often associated with athletes and active people, ankle injuries can affect anyone of any age.
If you or a loved one suffers an ankle injury, it’s important to seek prompt diagnosis and treatment. Without proper care, an ankle injury can affect your mobility and prevent you from routine activities like exercising or walking the dog.
At Denver Metro Orthopedics, P.C., Dr. Schwappach diagnoses and treats various ankle injuries, including:
An ankle strain occurs when you twist, pull, or tear a muscle or tendon. Strains can be acute or chronic; acute strains occur suddenly, while chronic strains happen over a period of days or weeks.
Ankle sprains occur when you step down awkwardly or roll your ankle. These movements cause the ligaments that surround your ankle –– tough bands of fibrous tissue –– to stretch and tear. Most ankle sprains aren’t serious and resolve on their own with rest and at-home care.
Ankle fractures occur when you break one of the three bones that make up your ankle joint. Often, a fracture is due to sudden impact like a car accident or as a result of a crush injury, like dropping a heavy object on your foot.
If you play a sport that involves running and frequent changes in direction, like soccer or basketball, you’re more likely to experience a sprain or strain. Fortunately, it’s possible to lower your risk of a sports injury by warming up, cooling down, and staying hydrated.
To diagnose ankle injuries, Dr. Schwappach conducts a comprehensive physical exam and asks about your symptoms. During the exam, he gently presses on your ankle to pinpoint areas of warmth or swelling and test its range of motion.
If visual observation doesn’t provide enough insight to make a diagnosis, your provider might also order X-rays, an MRI, or an ultrasound. These diagnostic imaging procedures provide detailed photos of the hard and soft tissues in your ankle joint.
Treatment of ankle injuries depends on the underlying cause and its effects on your daily life. When possible, Dr. Schwappach recommends conservative, minimally invasive treatments like ice, rest, and elevation, over-the-counter pain medication, regenerative medicine injections, and physical therapy.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, surgical intervention may be necessary. The provider specializes in minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques that provide long-lasting outcomes while lowering the risk of complications.
To receive treatment for ankle injuries, make an appointment at Denver Metro Orthopedics, P.C., by calling the nearest office or booking online today.
