Post-Ultrasound Pain After Ankle Sprain Treatment

After ultrasound treatment for a sprain, there may be a tingling sensation?

Hello, I sprained my foot near the fifth metatarsal while exercising after stepping on someone else's foot.
The emergency physician indicated that there were no fractures.
The next day, I went for acupuncture treatment with a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner.
About a week later, I started receiving massage therapy on the affected area, which I continued for almost three weeks, but I still have a hard lump and even more pain.
Later, I consulted an orthopedic doctor who performed ultrasound therapy and infrared electrical stimulation.
The physical therapist explained the sensations I might experience during the process, but my question is: after the treatment, I feel a tingling sensation at home, and what was initially manageable walking has now started to hurt.
Is this due to the treatment being too intense, or is it a normal phenomenon? Additionally, I am concerned about potential long-term effects after recovery.
Should I see a chiropractor, or is it unnecessary? The orthopedic doctor mentioned that there is slight displacement of the bone and periostitis, and that massage therapy was inappropriate.
The physical therapist suggested that if I am worried about long-term effects, I could consult a trusted chiropractor, but this is my first injury, and I don't know whom to approach.
I would greatly appreciate your assistance in answering these questions.
Thank you very much!

Mi Hua, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/04

Dr. Wang Zhaomin reply Rehabilitation

It is normal to experience soreness during ultrasound therapy, and initial treatment may increase pain levels.
However, if the pain becomes sharp and unbearable, it may be necessary to reduce the treatment intensity.
If there is a dislocation of bones or joints, it is not advisable to consult a chiropractor; instead, protective braces should be used for stabilization, along with appropriate rehabilitation therapy.
It is recommended to continue discussions with orthopedic and rehabilitation physicians regarding the subsequent treatment plan.

Reply Date: 2019/06/04

More Info

After an ankle sprain, it is common to experience pain and discomfort during the recovery process, especially after treatments such as ultrasound therapy and physical rehabilitation. Your situation, where you experienced a sharp pain after treatment, raises several important considerations regarding the healing process and the potential for post-treatment discomfort.

Firstly, it is essential to understand that pain following ultrasound therapy can be a normal response. Ultrasound treatment is designed to promote healing by increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation in the affected area. However, the intensity of the treatment can sometimes lead to temporary discomfort or a sensation of pain, especially if the tissue is still inflamed or sensitive from the initial injury. If the treatment was particularly intense or if the area was already sensitive, it could exacerbate the pain temporarily.

The presence of a hard lump and increased pain after treatment could indicate that the tissue is still healing and that there may be residual swelling or inflammation. This is not uncommon after an ankle sprain, as the body responds to injury by sending inflammatory cells to the area, which can lead to swelling and pain. It is crucial to monitor these symptoms and communicate with your healthcare provider about any significant changes or worsening of pain.

Regarding your concern about potential long-term effects or complications from the injury, it is wise to be cautious. Ankle sprains can sometimes lead to chronic issues if not managed properly. The mention of "bone displacement" and "periosteitis" (inflammation of the periosteum, the tissue surrounding the bone) suggests that there may be underlying issues that need to be addressed. If the bone is slightly misaligned, it could lead to ongoing pain or instability in the joint.

As for seeking additional treatment from a chiropractor or osteopath, this can be beneficial, but it is essential to ensure that the practitioner is experienced in treating sports injuries and understands the nuances of your specific condition. A qualified professional can help assess your ankle's alignment and function and provide appropriate treatment to facilitate recovery. However, it is crucial to ensure that any manipulation or adjustment is done carefully, especially given your recent injury.

In summary, experiencing pain after ultrasound treatment can be a normal part of the healing process, but it is essential to keep an open line of communication with your healthcare providers. If the pain persists or worsens, or if you have concerns about long-term effects, seeking a second opinion or additional treatment from a qualified specialist may be warranted. Always prioritize your comfort and recovery, and do not hesitate to ask questions or express concerns to your medical team.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Ankle Sprains: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Rehabilitation Insights

Hello, Doctor. I sprained my ankle on December 20th, with an inversion of my right foot, and I heard a popping sound. I went to the emergency room that day, and after an X-ray, it was confirmed that there were no fractures. I had a similar injury over a year ago, which was diagno...

Dr. Su Hongci reply Rehabilitation
1. Rehabilitation therapy can relieve pain and assist in tissue repair; it is advisable to use thermotherapy as early as possible. 2. Ultrasound examination targets soft tissues, while X-rays focus on bones and joints, with different treatments provided based on the condition. 3....

Understanding Ankle Sprains: Insights on Ligament Tears and Treatment Options

Hello, Doctor. I fell down a flight of stairs (about 10 steps) in April 2017, and my right ankle rolled over. It initially rolled inward and then outward. I couldn't get up at first and sat on the ground for over ten minutes before I managed to stand up. After that, I went f...

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics
1. A rehabilitation physician mentioned that my condition may not improve after surgery, so I would like to ask for advice regarding my foot situation. Surgery may not alleviate the issues of pain, numbness, and bruising. Surgical reconstruction of the anterior talofibular ligame...

Managing Ankle Pain During Exercise: Rehabilitation Insights and Solutions

In the past two years, I have experienced a sudden sensation of my ankle joint (specifically the anterior talofibular ligament) feeling "stuck" while walking, followed by a sharp pain at certain angles, similar to a sprain. The pain lasts for one to two days and then re...

Dr. Wang Zhaomin reply Rehabilitation
Chronic ligament sprains, laxity, and calcification can lead to related symptoms. Continuous rehabilitation treatment is necessary, and after recovery, using protective gear during physical activities can help safeguard the joints from injury.

Managing Ankle Pain: Recovery Tips and When to Seek Further Evaluation

Hello, doctor! I previously showed you my right ankle, and you taught me how to use an elastic bandage. Do you remember? I injured it the day before the Lunar New Year, and it has improved a lot since then. However, I still feel pain and tightness when I move my ankle, and there ...

Dr. Chen Xingyuan reply Orthopedics
Dear basketball enthusiasts, After an ankle ligament sprain, if not handled with special care, it is easy to suffer repeated injuries, leading to chronic ligament sprains. Subsequently, even slight or vigorous activities can easily cause ankle pain, which is the worst outcome. T...