do ankle injuries have to last a lifetime? -- 3 Considerations

First off, let’s start by saying that no ankle injury is the same. Each one affects different ligaments, muscles, and bony surfaces. Each one is handled differently by a person’s unique brain, peripheral nervous system, and previous conditioning and training.
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Second, I hear over and over again from people who have sprained one or both ankles 3, 6, and even 10 times throughout their lives. However, when they come to see me they aren’t seeking treatment for their ankles, but the ensuing knee pain, low back pain, etc. Think they’re related?

How do we avoid the downward trajectory of these injuries?

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When you trip into a one foot hole while leaping into a golf cart, and your partner comes in with a stylish purple handkerchief to save the day.

1. Rehab is not over after walking is pain free.
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Often times people may be able to walk on a sprained ankle right way. Others may take a few days before they can walk on it and relief starts to set in. But stop, this is the time for the most active part of recovery. Working on mobility, muscle and tendon activation, strength and stability progression.

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2. Ankle sprains take consistent movement
​and consistent rest.

There needs to be molding of the damaged tissue in the all of the different planes of movement. You have to recognize that this healing tissue to almost like having brand new, unskilled, and undeveloped tissue.  It must be challenged gradually and you must take time for recovery methods afterward.
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Getting the range of motion back day by day.

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​3. Don’t get stuck with a chronic injury.
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The greatest risk for injury is previous injury. While some ankle sprains can heal up fairly quickly, others make take months - with consistent rehab and treatment. The alternative is to ignore it and have ankle issues for a lifetime. The good news is you don’t have to do it alone! Find a sports chiropractor, clinical bodyworker, sports acupuncturist, movement based physical therapist to get you moving in the right direction.

You can see some of personal ankle rehab journey here >> here.
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Look for help in the right places,

Dr. Drwencke