Reasons to see an ankle specialist in Point Roberts, WA

Signs You Have an Ankle Injury

The ankles are special joints because they have to remain strong enough to support almost your entire body weight while remaining flexible enough for a variety of activities. When one or both of the ankles are in pain, it can be difficult to do much of anything that requires you to be on your feet, including standing.

Sometimes, ankle pain is minor and can benefit from a little rest and home treatment. However, ankle pain can also be a sign of something more serious. So, the question is, how do you know when to visit an ankle specialist for treatment? Well, we hope to clear that up for you below.

Signs you need to see an ankle specialist

Ankle pain can be related to a number of conditions. They all affect you in different ways, but generally, exhibit similar symptoms that indicate you need medical attention. These symptoms may include:

  • Sudden pain in the ankle
  • Swelling and redness
  • Weakness and a wobbly feeling in the ankle
  • Inability to put weight on the ankle
  • Misshapen appearance
  • Fever

Treatments for ankle pain vary depending on the cause and severity of your condition. Some options require surgery. Some require medication. However, when given the option, many people choose physical therapy.

Physical therapy treatments for ankle pain

Physical therapists are specialists in treating ankle conditions that cause pain and a limited range of mobility. Some of the treatments that physical therapists use include:

  • Therapeutic exercise — Physical therapists can design a specific exercise and stretching plan to improve the muscles and ligaments around the area of your ankle that is in pain. This improves the support structure for your ankle, which reduces pain and improves recovery from injuries. It also helps prevent future ankle injuries from occurring.  
  • Manual therapy — Physical therapists can use their hands to move and mobilize the joints and soft tissue. If the ankle is in pain, it may benefit from manual therapy mobilizations for reducing pain and improving range of motion.  
  • Electrical stimulation — Electrical stimulation involves the use of a machine that delivers small bursts of electricity to the muscles through electrodes connected to the skin. This causes the muscles to contract and release, which keeps them healthy and fit when they’re not being used. It can also help soothe pain and improve blood flow to the ankle.

Visit Whatcom Physical Therapy in Point Roberts, WA, for ankle pain treatment

At Whatcom Physical Therapy in Point Roberts, Washington, our team specializes in a variety of treatments for ankle pain. If you have ankle pain and need to visit a specialist for treatment, our team is ready to help you. We can examine your ankle and determine what kind of personalized treatment you need. Contact our team today to learn more about ankle pain treatment or to schedule an initial appointment.