Have you recently injured your ankle or foot? Do you have persistent pain since spraining your ankle? Knowing the difference between a mild problem that goes away on its own and one that lingers on indefinitely is the job of a physical therapist.
Physical Therapy for Foot or Ankle Pain
At FYZICAL, we are committed to helping you get the results you need to resume your life without limits! While many factors can lead to foot and ankle pain, sprains/strains are common examples. Even if your pain subsides, dysfunction may still be present and lead to reinjury or chronic pain.
If you have noticed limited mobility, persistent pain, or balance and gait problems since your injury, FYZICAL can help. We will determine the type of injury (i.e., a sprain or strain) and provide you with the necessary treatments for healing and tips to avoid re-injury. Call today to schedule an appointment with one of our highly skilled physical therapists!
What is the difference between a sprain and strain?
A sprain happens when a ligament (the tissue that connects one bone) is stretched or torn. Sprains are typically the result of a trauma, a deceleration (slowing down) movement, or a sudden change in direction. The most common symptoms include pain, inflammation, muscle spasm, and sometimes an inability to move the joints where the injury occurred.
Strains occur to a muscle or tendon (the tissue that connects muscle to bone). Strains usually happen when the muscle suddenly contracts, like running, jumping, or repetitive and awkward movements. The symptoms of strains are similar to those associated with sprains, making them difficult to tell apart without doing a physical therapy examination. There are three grades of sprains/strains that outline the severity of the injury.
Grade 1:
- Mild pain (Rarely Moderate or severe pain)
- No bruising
- Minimal swelling (sometimes no swelling)
- Tenderness to the touch at the site of the injury
Grade 2:
- Mild to moderate pain (rarely severe pain)
- Some bruising
- Mild to moderate swelling around the injury
- Tenderness to touch on-site and around the injury
- Often painful to put weight on your injured limb
Grade 3:
- Moderate to severe pain
- Significant bruising
- Moderate to severe swelling throughout the limb
- Tenderness to touch at the site and surrounding area of the injury
- Often severe pain or inability to put weight through the injured area
Surgery & Bracing for Sprain or Strain
Ligaments are torn (ruptured), and the joint will be loose/unstable from tearing, so it may require surgical intervention or the use of bracing to facilitate healing. If you are unsure whether you sustained a sprain or strain, our physical therapists can help you figure it out.
Orthopedic Rehabilitation
Balance & Vestibular Therapy
Hand & Upper Extremity Therapy
Workers’ Comp & Auto Injuries