How to reduce the pain due to ankle sprain?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have chronic ankle sprains in both the ankles. I have this for maybe a year now. I went to PT and have been doing exercises. But, about a week ago, my ankle began to pop. It is happening once in a while. It really hurts and I have to pause for a couple minutes for the pain to settle. Is this normal? Is there a way for me to prevent or calm this pain? I am taking Zoloft and Ibuprofen when needed. Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Hope this message finds you in good health. I have gone through your complaints and understand your concern. I generally see many cases like this in my clinic. I give them a splint, rest, analgesics, anti-inflammatory tablets, and ice packs till the swelling reduces to some extent. Then we get an x-ray and if necessary an MRI done to find out the exact cause. From the history you have mentioned, it seems that you have very weak ankles in particular or all the ligaments in general. Such recurrent sprains occur either due to some old untreated childhood injury or weak ligaments or muscles around the joint. I suggest you should get an x-ray or MRI to find out the reason. To prevent yourself from getting recurrent sprains, you should see a good physiotherapist and do the ankle strengthening exercises. You should eventually get back to normal in a few weeks. Nothing to worry about. Do get back to me after your reports are ready.

Thank you.