Joe A Shaw PA-C - 5/2/2009

Question
Hi,
Two months ago I completely tore one ligament in my ankle and partially two after I fell down the stairs and twisted my ankle. I thought it was a regular sprain so I didnt go to the doctor for the first 2 weeks. However, when I did, I had an xray and mri done which said that my ligaments were torn. I wore a boot for 10 days and then an air cast for another 3 weeks.

Its been 2 months now and my ankle feels better, but not completely. The surgeon, who confirmed that i did not need surgery, said that I can play soccer(which is my biggest concern) to the extent where nothing hurts me. However, my ankle does not hurt, rather it bothers me and I feel discomfort. I started slowly playing soccer(taping my ankle when I do)and it doesnt hurt, but it doesnt seem normal(only on one occasion it hurt but not a lot, and after that I stopped playing).

I was just wondering how much longer will my ankle give me discomfort and when will it be back to normal, since there are certain things I cannot do while playing now since it might hurt.Also, I wanted to know if I can continue playing?

Thanks


Answer
Ronaldo,
Ankle sprains may take 6-12 mos. to heal to the sports level. You need to wear a good quality sports ankle support(lace up are the best)You need to ice it after playing and then use something like biofreeze gel. You also need to get a balance board stttart with a rocker board and the advance to a wobble board. These are best to build up your ligaments/tendons in the ankle and foot.
It will just have to be trial and error as to what you can tolerate etc..but hopefully you should gradually get better.