Ankle Ligament Sprains: Recovery and Pain Management Tips - Orthopedics

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Ankle ligament sprain


Hello Dr.
Wang,
Two weeks ago, I sustained a ligament injury in my ankle after intense running.
Initially, I did not feel any pain, but later I noticed significant discomfort when walking or running.
There was no visible swelling.
I consulted an orthopedic doctor who prescribed some pain medications (Keto E.M.
Cap., Relax, Sanyl).
I would like to ask the following questions:
1.
Do I need to continue taking the pain medication, or should I only take it when I feel pain?
2.
I have a regular exercise routine; if I cannot run, can I switch to cycling?
3.
Will the ligament injury heal, or could it lead to permanent damage?
Thank you for taking the time to respond.

Shi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/11/01

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics


Dear Shih Yun-Ting,
You are experiencing ankle pain after running, but there is no visible swelling.
If this is your first occurrence, appropriate physical therapy and medication are necessary.
Regarding your question about whether you need to continue taking medication, generally, moderate rest and medication can help alleviate your discomfort.
The duration of medication is typically not long, usually at least 1-2 weeks.
It should not have a significant impact on your body; if your symptoms improve significantly after a few days of medication, you can adjust the dosage as needed.
Running is a high-impact activity that places considerable stress on the joints and ligaments.
Switching to cycling may reduce the impact.
Ligament injuries vary in severity.
Most cases will heal within 6-8 weeks with proper rest, but a small number of more severe injuries, especially those involving larger ligaments that have not received adequate protection and rehabilitation, may result in prolonged symptoms and discomfort.
Wishing you health and happiness.
Wang Shou-Ji
Changhua Hospital
Caring for your health.

Reply Date: 2005/11/01

More Info


Dear Patient,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding your recent ankle ligament sprain. It’s great to see that you are proactive about your recovery and pain management. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Pain Management with Medications: It’s important to use pain medications judiciously. Generally, you should take pain relief medications like the ones prescribed (Keto E.M. Cap., Relax, Sanyl) as needed, particularly when you experience pain. If you find that the pain is manageable without medication, you can reduce or stop taking them. However, if the pain is persistent or worsening, it may be beneficial to continue taking them as prescribed. Always consult your physician before making changes to your medication regimen.

2. Alternative Exercise Options: Since you have a regular exercise routine, it’s understandable that you want to maintain your activity levels. Cycling can be a good alternative to running, as it is a low-impact exercise that places less strain on your ankle. However, it’s crucial to listen to your body. If you experience pain while cycling, it may be best to rest and allow your ankle to heal. Additionally, consider incorporating exercises that focus on flexibility and strength without putting too much stress on the injured ligament, such as swimming or upper body workouts.

3. Recovery from Ligament Injuries: Ankle ligament sprains can vary in severity, and recovery can depend on the extent of the injury. Most mild to moderate sprains heal well with appropriate care, including rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Physical therapy can also play a significant role in rehabilitation, helping to restore strength, flexibility, and stability to the ankle. While some individuals may experience lingering effects, most people do recover fully and can return to their previous activity levels. However, severe sprains or those that are not managed properly may lead to chronic instability or pain, which can become a long-term issue.

In summary, managing your pain with medication as needed, exploring alternative forms of exercise like cycling, and engaging in physical therapy will significantly aid your recovery. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to monitor your progress. If you notice any unusual symptoms or if your pain persists, it’s essential to seek further evaluation.

Wishing you a smooth recovery and the best of health!
Sincerely,
Doctor Q&A Teams



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