Injuries to the soft tissues in your ankle are known as ankle sprains. A ligament injury occurs when one or more of the ligaments that connect bones to one another are overstretched, pulled, or torn. Sports fields, courts, and even everyday activities like stumbling on uneven pavement can cause ankle sprains. At All-in-One Foot Care Center, we know ankle sprains can happen. There are some steps you can take to prevent ankle sprains, even though it may seem like they “just happen.”
- Wearing the right shoes. Your shoes should provide good ankle support. Every 300-400 miles or every year, replace athletic and running shoes. If you suffer from chronic weak ankles, it may be wise to choose high-top styles that lace up firmly around the ankle. Wear shoes that won’t allow the ankle to slip out of place, such as flip-flops.
- Warm-up before and after sports and exercise. Heat improves the function of muscles and ligaments, reducing the risk of injury.
- Complete the entire treatment course for ankle injuries. One of the leading causes of chronic weak ankles is not fully recovering from an old ankle injury. Do not assume that your ankle is fully healed once the pain is gone. In order to prevent recurrent strains, it is important to strengthen the muscles surrounding and supporting the ligaments. Consult your podiatrist if you have suffered multiple sprains.
You should check the fields and surfaces where you plan to run or play a sport for holes and dips that can cause ankle sprains. Pay attention to what’s in front of you when you walk. You can lose your footing and twist your ankle if you step on acorns, loose gravel, or other small objects.
Helping you be proactive about your foot and ankle health is one of our goals at the All-in-One Foot Care Center. To learn more about foot conditions and caring for your feet, contact our office at 949-588-8833, or visit our website at https://www.ocfootdoctor.com. Our offices are located in Laguna Hills, Irvine, Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo, Lake Forest, Foothill Ranch, and Costa Mesa.