Just how likely are you to twist or sprain your ankle? A study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports that about 2 million ankle sprains occur in the U.S. every year. This information indicates that ankle sprains are very likely.
The same NIH study also gives readers an idea of what symptoms they can expect from a twisted or sprained ankle. Pain is one of these symptoms, and decreased ability to move and swelling are also listed. Some physical therapy techniques have proven effective for sprained ankle symptoms. There are two techniques in particular that could benefit your ankle recovery.
Two therapy techniques that effectively treat twisted ankle symptoms
Every patient tends to respond to twisted ankle symptoms differently. Physical therapists will use the treatments that are most effective for your needs. However, medical studies have shown that two therapy methods are particularly effective for sprained ankles. These two techniques are:
- Manual therapy — Any technique that relies on the use of a therapist’s hands could fall into the manual therapy category. Some of these techniques are used to improve the mobility of the ankle joint after a sprain. Others are intended to reduce the pain and swelling in ankle soft tissue. In one medical study, manual therapy was able to help patients achieve a 70% reduction in their pain in just four weeks (JOSPT, 2013).
- Kinesio Taping® — This therapy method involves the use of specially designed tape. Applying this tape is intended to lift the skin away from injured soft tissue, which can help improve blood flow to the injury. It’s also designed to provide stability to the injured body part. Studies also show that Kinesio Taping® provides better ankle stability than traditional athletic tape (IJMRHS, 2016).
Peak Performance offers effective physical therapy for twisted ankle symptoms
You don’t have to rely on home treatments alone to treat twisted ankle symptoms. Let our physical therapists at Peak Performance show you how physical therapy can help. Our clinics offer free screenings, and this service is designed to reveal which symptoms are affecting your ankle. We can use this information to create a personalized treatment plan for you. Your plan will be designed to use multiple beneficial therapy techniques, such as manual therapy and Kinesio Taping®.
Are you ready to start getting our help with your twisted ankle? Contact us today for more information or to schedule your free screening.
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