The Dangers of Ignoring Reoccurring Ankle Sprains

I know that many people don't want to head to the doctor for ankle sprains.  Sprains can often be treated with rest, ice, and a simple ace bandage.  However, if you have had multiple ankle sprains, you may have a more serious problem.  Repeated ankle sprains and other ankle injuries can lead to ankle arthritis and should be treated aggressively.

 

Ankle arthritis differs from hip or knee arthritis in that it usually results from trauma rather than the everyday wear and tear associated with old age. It has been reported that arthritis after a single or multiple injuries is the leading cause for end stage ankle arthritis. Most people don’t realize that reoccurring ankle sprains can eventually lead to severe pain and difficulty walking.

In a recent study of people with end stage arthritis in their ankles, 87% resulted from a specific or repeated injury and less than 1% was attributed to general wear and tear type osteoarthritis. Another study showed that 18% of the patients suffering from end stage ankle arthritis have a history of chronic instability, which can result in repeated ankle sprains. 

If you have ankle pain or frequent sprains, there are non-surgical options available through new and advanced ankle bracing.  Several surgical options are available as well.  Don’t ignore recurrent ankle sprains!