Patients receive treatment appropriate for the cause of the problem.
Therefore, it is important to seek medical advice and understand the diagnosis and the severity
of symptoms before beginning any treatment programme.
Rest
This is usually the first treatment for ankle pain relief because it allows the inflammation to subside. Crutches may be helpful for severe symptoms.
Footwear Modifications, Orthotics and Braces
The choice of treatment depends on the patient's condition.
Ice and Heat Application
Ice packs and heat pads are among the most commonly used treatments for
inflammation. Ice packs are mostly used for acute injuries to help
minimise swelling while heat pads are used for chronic conditions to help relax
and loosen tissues, and to stimulate blood flow to the area.
Stretching
A good routine of stretching the
muscles and tendons surrounding the joint can help with some ankle pain.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is an important aspect of treatment for almost all
orthopaedic conditions. Physiotherapists use different modalities to increase
strength, regain mobility, and help return patients to their pre-injury level
of activity.
Anti-Inflammatory Medication
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, commonly known as NSAIDs,
are some of the most frequently prescribed medications, especially for patients
with ankle pain caused by problems such as arthritis, bursitis, and
tendonitis.
Steriod Injections
Triamcinolone is a powerful medication that treats inflammation, a
common problem in patients with ankle pain.
Surgery
Surgery is rarely used as part of the acute treatment of an ankle
sprain. Patients who undergo surgery usually have recurrent ankle injuries and
persistent ankle pain, stemming from torn ligaments that did not properly heal.
Patients who have chronic, recurring ankle sprains usually have loose
ligaments. The most commonly performed surgery to 'tighten' these ligaments is
called a Brostrom repair. During surgery, the ligaments on the outside of the
ankle are tightened, preventing ankle instability.
An unstable ankle joint can be detected via a physical examination where the
doctor will compare the 'good' ankle with the injured ankle to assess its 'looseness'.
An X-ray of the ankle can also be taken to ascertain its strength.