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Sprained Ankle Specialist

As of Tuesday, June 6th, our new Hudson office location is: 86 Healy Boulevard Suite 2, Hudson, NY, 12534

Sprained Ankle services offered in Kingston, New Windsor, Wappingers Falls, Hudson and West Coxsackie, NY


Even one sprained ankle puts you at risk of chronic instability. With locations in Kingston, New Windsor, Wappingers Falls, Hudson, and West Coxsackie, New York, the board-certified podiatrists and foot and ankle surgeons at Hudson Valley Foot Associates provide prompt treatment for ankle sprains to prevent your risk of reinjury. Call the location nearest you or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.

What is a sprained ankle?

A sprained ankle occurs when the ligaments that support your ankle joint twist or stretch at an awkward ankle. The ligaments can stretch too far or tear altogether. Swelling, bruising, and pain prevent you from enjoying proper mobility. 

Without treatment, a sprained ankle may interfere with the joint’s stability. Ankle instability puts you at risk of recurrent sprains that diminish your mobility.

What are the different types of sprained ankles?

Your doctor at Hudson Valley Foot Associates classifies a sprained ankle into three separate categories:

Grade 1

A grade 1 ankle sprain causes bruising, swelling, and pain. You may still be able to bear weight on your ankle, but doing so can aggravate your condition. If you have a grade 1 sprain, your ligaments are still intact.

Grade 2

If you have a grade 2 ankle sprain, you have an incomplete tear. Bearing weight can be extremely painful, but the ligaments are still intact.

Grade 3

A grade 3 ankle sprain is a complete ligament tear. You may be in extreme pain that prevents you from putting any weight on your ankle.

What are the symptoms of a sprained ankle?

Symptoms of a sprained ankle vary depending on the severity of the trauma. Common signs of ankle sprains include:

  • Swelling
  • Limited range of motion
  • Ankle instability
  • Bruising
  • Redness
  • Tenderness

The most common sign of a sprained ankle is an inability to bear weight on the affected joint.

What causes a sprained ankle?

A sprained ankle occurs when your foot twists at an awkward angle. This sudden movement forces the ankle out of its natural position. You may land on an uneven surface after jumping, twist your ankle while running, or even lose your balance when walking. You’re more likely to sprain your ankle if you:

  • Play sports that involve running or jumping
  • Wear high-heels or poor-fitting shoes
  • Have experienced an ankle injury in the past
  • Have prior ankle sprains or ankle instability

Seeking prompt care for a sprained ankle can help you avoid potentially serious complications, such as arthritis (joint inflammation), fractures (bone breaks), or contusions (severe tissue damage).

What are the treatments for a sprained ankle?

The severity of your sprained ankle determines the appropriate treatment. As sports medicine specialists, the physicians at Hudson Valley Foot Associates offer multiple ankle sprain treatments, including:

  • Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E.)
  • Immobilization (bracing, casting, bandaging, etc.)
  • Physical therapy
  • Anti-inflammatory medication
  • Walking devices, like crutches

If your ligaments don’t heal on their own, your doctor may recommend surgery. Surgical intervention may also be necessary to prevent future sprains. To learn more, call Hudson Valley Foot Associates or schedule an appointment online today.

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