Description A forceful twisting...
Description
A forceful twisting of the foot causing a stretch or tear of the ligaments in the foot, but no fracture (broken bone). The foot is divided into 3 regions: a forefoot (toes), a mid-foot (central), and a hind-foot (ankle and heel region). Injuries can occur in all three areas of the foot, but the most common region for the injury to occur is the mid-foot region. Sprains are commonly graded in a severity range from Grade I (mild) to Grade III (severe). Most mild sprains heal on their own with just rest. Severe injuries may need immobilization and/or surgical repair.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include pain with weight bearing, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and decreased range of motion.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam primarily focused on the foot and ankle will be performed. A specific exam to test the ligaments in the foot and ankle will be conducted. An X-ray may be performed to rule out a fracture. If necessary, an MRI can provide details of the sprain including the extent of damage.
Tests:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery, Family Practice, Podiatry, Foot and Ankle Surgery, Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery
Workup:
A history and physical exam primarily focused on the foot and ankle will be performed. A specific exam to test the ligaments in the foot and ankle will be conducted. An X-ray may be performed to rule out a fracture. If necessary, an MRI can provide details of the sprain including the extent of damage.
Tests:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery, Family Practice, Podiatry, Foot and Ankle Surgery, Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery
Treatment
Most mild sprains heal on their own with just rest. Treatment includes: immobilization, ice, elevation and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn) and pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol). Physical therapy and therapeutic ultrasound may be helpful. For severe sprains that do not improve with other treatments, more prolonged immobilization and/or surgery may be required.