Often Considered Minor, Sprained Ankle Can Be a Serious Injury

Illustration of a sprained ankle. (Freepik)

JAKARTA - A sprain or sprain is an injury that occurs quite often in daily activities. From the wrong step when walking, slipping on a slippery floor, to injuries when exercising or lifting heavy weights.

Because it is often experienced, sprains are often considered trivial and believed to be able to heal on their own just by resting or being massaged.

In fact, not all sprains are considered minor injuries. In some conditions, the pain that arises can indicate serious disorders in the muscles, ligaments, or joints that require medical treatment.

"Because it is very common, many people try to cope with the pain themselves. Sometimes it's fine. Sometimes it's not," said sports injury consultant and joint replacement surgeon at Arete Hospital, Dr. Kundan Kumar Jha, as quoted by Hindustan Times.

According to Dr. Jha, minor injuries will generally show improvement in a matter of days. However, if the pain persists or worsens, the condition should be watched out for as it could indicate a more serious injury.

He also reminded that swelling in the area of the sprain should gradually subside. If the swelling does not subside, or even reappears when the body part is moved, it can be a sign that the injury has not recovered well.

Injuries cannot be considered minor if a person even unconsciously limits his body's movement in order to avoid pain. Difficulty standing, walking, grasping objects, or carrying a load, according to Dr. Jha, often indicates a disorder in the supporting structure of the joint.

In addition, the sensation of the joints that feel shaky, especially on the knees, ankles, shoulders, or wrists, can indicate ligament or muscle injuries in the surrounding area that are no longer able to support optimally.

"If the injured body part feels painful, changes shape, tingling, numbness, or is difficult to move, you should immediately see a professional medical staff," he said.

Dr. Jha also emphasized that repeated pain in the same location could be a sign that the previous injury had not healed completely. Muscles and supporting tissues that have not fully recovered make the joints more prone to re-injury.

"With rest, maybe physiotherapy, or using a brace, most people will recover and not have any stiffness or weak joints," said Dr. Jha.

He reminded that prolonged pain and joint instability after sprains are not considered normal conditions. Early examination is considered important to prevent complications and ensure that body functions can return to optimal levels.