Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries, often treated with the POLICE protocol (Protect, Optimally load, Ice, Compression, and Elevation). While this approach helps manage pain and swelling in the short term, many people make the mistake of returning to normal activities as soon as they feel better—without fully addressing their ankle's function.
At Back2Strength, your trusted Eugene chiropractor, we know that skipping proper rehabilitation can have long-term consequences. Let’s explore why rehabbing your ankle after a sprain is so important.
The Problem with "Feeling Better" After an Ankle Sprain
After the pain subsides, it’s tempting to jump back into your daily routine. However, a recent review published in Physiotherapy revealed a concerning link between ankle sprains and chronic ankle instability (CAI).
Here’s what the research shows:
- People with CAI often have altered walking mechanics, which can lead to:
- Reduced ankle stability.
- Increased risk of re-injury.
- Compensatory stress on other joints, like the knees or hips.
Why Rehabilitation Is Essential
Rehabilitating your ankle after a sprain isn’t just about relieving pain—it’s about restoring its full mobility, strength, and stability. This ensures your ankle functions properly and reduces your risk of future injuries.
Key Goals of Ankle Rehabilitation:
- Restore Mobility: Improve the range of motion to prevent stiffness.
- Rebuild Strength: Strengthen the muscles around the ankle for better support.
- Enhance Proprioception: Train the body’s ability to sense joint position and movement, which is critical for balance and coordination.
- Prevent Re-Injury: Address underlying biomechanical issues to reduce the risk of future sprains.
How Back2Strength Can Help
At Back2Strength, we take a holistic approach to ankle rehabilitation, combining the latest research with personalized care. Here’s how we can help:
- Chiropractic Adjustments: Restore proper function of the ankle and foot joints.
- Soft Tissue Therapy: Address stiffness and improve circulation to promote healing.
- Customized Exercise Programs: Target mobility, strength, and proprioception through tailored exercises.
- Education and Support: Provide tips for safe return to activities and injury prevention.
Take the First Step Toward Full Recovery
Don’t let an ankle sprain sideline you or put you at risk for future injuries. By focusing on proper rehabilitation, you can restore your ankle’s function and get back to doing what you love.
Call Back2Strength, your go-to Eugene chiropractor, to schedule an appointment today and start your journey to recovery!
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