A sprained ankle means that the ligaments that hold the bones in the ankle together have been stretched beyond their limits. Sprains range from mild to severe and are one of the most common injuries a person can have. Dr. Michael Stein and Dr. Zeindelin Ahmad regularly see patients with ankle sprains at their podiatry practice in San Leandro, California. Not sure if you've sprained your ankle? Dr. Michael Stein and Dr. Zeineldin provide treatment options for ankle sprains and other foot and ankle issues.

Bruising

One of the most common signs that an ankle has suffered a sprain is a bruise that develops in that area. This is due to internal bleeding around the torn ligament. Usually the amount of bruising corresponds with the degree of the sprain; a severe sprain will typically have quite a bit more purple or blue discoloration spread across the foot and ankle than a mild injury would.

Swelling

One of the ways the body responds to injury is to increase the amount of fluids to the affected area, which leads to swelling. This is another sign that you've sprained your ankle; this inflammatory response serves to reduce motion of the ankle as a way to keep the injury from worsening. However, the amount of swelling should reduce in size after a couple days of rest, ice, and elevation. If your ankle still looks "puffy" and red after a day or two of at-home treatment, contact your San Leandro podiatrist right away.

Pain

As you can imagine, a sprained ankle can be very painful, both at the moment it happens and soon afterward. However, if your pain hasn't improved within a day or two, it's advisable to contact your San Leandro podiatrist. This is especially true if you're unable to put weight on your ankle at all. Early treatment of ankle sprains helps to promote proper healing and prevent permanent weakness.

If you think you've sprained your ankle, don't delay in contacting Dr. Stein or Dr. Ahmad at their podiatry office here in San Leandro, California. We want to help you get back on your feet safely!