Foot and ankle pain can be frustrating as it impacts your everyday tasks and recovery time can vary vastly depending on the injury. Here at the Center for Spine and Orthopedics, our foot and ankle surgeon in North Denver specializes in treating a number of foot and ankle conditions. If you are suffering from foot and ankle pain, it is important to know how to treat and prevent it. To learn more in-depth about how to manage the pain and when to see a foot and ankle surgeon in North Denver, continue reading below!

Managing Foot or Ankle Pain Caused by an Injury

Foot or ankle pain caused by an injury occurs suddenly and includes conditions such as sprains and fractures.

What should I do after a foot or ankle injury?

If your foot or ankle pain is the result of an injury, in the moments immediately following, try treating it with the tried-and-true acronym RICE, which stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation.

Light compression and keeping your injured foot or ankle elevated above the level of your heart will help minimize swelling. A heating pad can make the injury feel better initially, but because it opens blood vessels in the injured area, it can ultimately make the inflammation worse. Ice, on the other hand, will constrict the blood vessels, reducing inflammation.

Acetaminophen and ibuprofen can temporarily relieve discomfort. But first, make sure it’s safe to take with any medications you’ve been prescribed or pre-existing medical conditions that you have.

When should I see a foot and ankle surgeon in North Denver?

Many foot and ankle injuries may be treated at home, but some symptoms require immediate medical attention:

• A significant deformity. Compare your injured ankle or foot to the other one. If there’s a clear difference in appearance, seek medical attention.
• Any large open wounds or significant bleeding
• You’re unable to put any weight on your injured foot or ankle

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To schedule an appointment with our foot and ankle surgeon in North Denver, contact CSO today! 

Original article published on pennmedicine.org