Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries, and make up nearly a quarter of all sport related injuries. An ankle sprain is an injury where the ligaments that hold the ankle joint together are stretched or torn. The most typical type of ankle sprain is a lateral sprain, caused from the ankle turning in with excessive force. Particularly, you might have heard the phrase "rolled an ankle," and this is exactly what can cause chronic ankle sprains.
Because the ankle is part of the lower extremity and used for weight bearing and ambulation, injury to the joint can throw off the entire body. Scar tissue builds up after a ligament is sprained, and it can heal but it never really maintains it's original stability.
Studies show that an average of 20% of ankle sprains become a chronic problem. Ankle stability This will cause increased problems with proprioception in the ankle joint. Lack of the bodies sensory awareness of the joint in space can lead to repeated ankle sprains.
Often times therapeutic exercise and modalities after an ankle sprain can help restore proper function. Unstable joints or complete ligament tears in the ankle may require surgical intervention. Inadequate healing time can also lead to a high occurrence of chronic ankle sprains. Typically, it's difficult for many people to stay off the ankle long enough to allow a ligament to properly heal, and it might feel stable earlier than when it actually is safe to stress the ligaments.
There are many ways that chiropractic care can help with ankle sprains. Athletes who suffer from chronic ankle sprains have improved function after chiropractic treatments. Traumatic stress or immobilization to the joint can cause misalignments to the ankle
Likewise, high velocity low amplitude techniques used by chiropractors on other parts of the body can improve nervous system function. Misalignments found in the spine, pelvis and lower extremity can all contribute to ankle injuries.
Chiropractic care treats the body as a whole, and enhancing overall health and function of the nervous assist in the healing process. Better balance, proprioception and strength will lead to better athletic performance.
