Managing Ankle Ligament Injuries: Recovery Tips and Treatment Options

Ankle ligament injury

Hello Doctor, I fell on December 21st, and the doctor told me it was a ligament injury without a tear, and that it would take about 4 to 6 weeks to heal.
However, it has been a week, and my ankle is still swollen, making it difficult to stand on both feet.
Initially, I consulted an orthopedic doctor who advised me not to tighten the brace too much.
This week, since the swelling hasn't subsided, I saw a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner who applied a medicated plaster that was wrapped quite tightly.
Currently, I wear the tighter medicated plaster at night while I sleep and remove the brace during the day, keeping it loosely secured.
Is this approach acceptable? Also, since it has been a week and the swelling persists, should I apply ice or heat? Additionally, due to my class schedule, I can't keep my foot elevated all the time.
Are there any other methods to reduce swelling? Lastly, how often should I undergo rehabilitation? Thank you.

Nìmíng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/12/29

Dr. Li Yanheng reply Rehabilitation

1.
The terms "loose" or "tight" are difficult to define descriptively; it is recommended to consult with a rehabilitation specialist, as excessive tightness can indeed affect circulation and lead to swelling.
2.
If the swelling remains severe, it is advisable to continue outpatient follow-up to identify the underlying cause.

Reply Date: 2021/12/29

More Info

Managing ankle ligament injuries can be a challenging process, especially when dealing with swelling and pain. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a typical recovery phase after a ligament injury, which can take several weeks to heal. Here are some insights and recommendations regarding your recovery process.

Recovery Process and Treatment Options
1. Understanding the Injury: Ligament injuries, particularly sprains, can vary in severity. Since your doctor indicated that there is no complete tear, the recovery time of 4 to 6 weeks is reasonable. However, individual healing times can vary based on factors such as age, overall health, and adherence to treatment protocols.

2. Swelling Management:
- Ice vs. Heat: In the first 48-72 hours post-injury, ice therapy is generally recommended to reduce swelling and numb pain. After this initial period, heat can be applied to promote blood flow and healing. Since you are one week post-injury and still experiencing significant swelling, you should continue to use ice for 15-20 minutes several times a day. If swelling persists after a few days of ice therapy, you may want to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

- Elevation: Elevating your ankle above heart level can help reduce swelling. If your schedule makes it difficult to keep your foot elevated, try to find opportunities throughout the day to prop it up, even if just for short periods.

3. Compression and Support:
- Bracing: It’s important to use a brace or support that provides adequate stability without being overly tight. A brace that is too tight can restrict blood flow and may exacerbate swelling. It sounds like you are alternating between a loose brace during the day and a tighter one at night, which can be beneficial. However, ensure that the tighter support does not cause discomfort or numbness.

- Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): The use of medicated patches can be helpful, but they should not replace conventional care. If the patches are too tight, they may contribute to swelling rather than alleviate it. Monitor how your ankle responds to this treatment.

4. Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation:
- Frequency of Rehab: Generally, physical therapy sessions can be scheduled 1-3 times a week, depending on the severity of the injury and your progress. A physical therapist can guide you through exercises that promote mobility, strength, and stability in your ankle.

- Home Exercises: In addition to professional therapy, you can perform gentle range-of-motion exercises at home. Start with simple movements like ankle circles and gradually progress to more challenging exercises as tolerated.

5. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. Always follow the dosage instructions and consult your doctor if you have any concerns.

6. Monitoring Progress: Keep track of your symptoms. If swelling does not improve, or if you experience increased pain, instability, or any new symptoms, it’s crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend imaging studies to rule out any complications.

7. Psychological Aspect: It’s common to feel anxious about recovery, especially if progress seems slow. Focus on small milestones and celebrate improvements, no matter how minor. Engaging in light activities that do not stress the ankle can help maintain a positive mindset.

Conclusion
In summary, managing an ankle ligament injury requires a combination of appropriate rest, ice therapy, elevation, and gradual reintroduction of movement. Your current approach of alternating between different supports and using ice is sound, but be cautious with the tightness of the compression. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider and possibly a physical therapist will be essential for a successful recovery. Remember, patience is key, and healing takes time.

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