Ankle Injury: Assessment / ActiveSTL - St. Louis Sports Chiropractor

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Dr. Brennan Donahue is a Chiropractic Physician with ActiveSTL in St. Louis, Missouri. At ActiveSTL we believe that everyone should have a pain-free, active lifestyle.
ActiveSTL is located in St.Louis, MO. We specialize in evidence-based, conservative care for weekend warriors, dedicated athletes, and desk workers.
Our website: activestl.com/
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Hello everyone, in this session, we'll be discussing the assessment of ankle injuries. When dealing with a twisted ankle, a key observation is how the individual walks from the front of the office to the exam room. Changes in their gait provide initial insights into the severity of the ankle sprain or strain.
Once in the exam room, obtaining a comprehensive history of the injury is crucial for building a patient-doctor relationship. Moving on, a visual examination of the ankle helps identify bruising, swelling, and point tenderness, aiding in determining the injury's severity.
As clinicians, our focus is on ruling out severe issues like ligament tears or fractures. We adhere to the Ottawa Ankle Rules, palpating specific areas to check for tenderness. Communication with the patient about their ability to walk and apply pressure on their foot helps decide if an X-ray is necessary before treatment.
Continuing the assessment, we evaluate the ankle's range of motion by having the patient perform various movements. Visual observation is followed by a hands-on examination, allowing us to identify any tenderness, soreness, or restrictions.
Testing ankle stability and ligaments involves applying controlled pressure to detect any unwanted movements. In some cases, a delay in assessment might be necessary due to excessive swelling and pain. During the initial 48 to 72 hours post-injury, the focus shifts to the principles of ice, rest, compression, and elevation.
Once a proper diagnosis is obtained, rehabilitation, strength training, and improving range of motion become paramount. This proactive approach ensures optimal results in getting the individual back to regular activities and sports.