FOOT SPRAIN

A foot sprain occurs when you stretch or tear the ligaments around your foot. Ligaments are tough tissues that connect one bone to another.

Schedule an Appointment

If your child needs surgery or casting, our Fracture Care Clinic opens every day and you do not need an appointment. Surgery rooms get scheduled every morning, so your child receives the care and attention they need right away.

Foot Sprain

A foot sprain is a common injury that occurs when the ligaments in the foot become stretched or torn. This injury stems from a variety of activities, including sports, exercise, or everyday activities. Understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and expected rehabilitation time is essential for managing this injury effectively.

Description

The foot is a complex structure made up of bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Ligaments are tough, fibrous bands that connect the bones in the foot and provide stability to the joint. A foot sprain occurs when one or more of these ligaments become stretched or torn. A foot sprain can occur in any part of the foot, but it most commonly occurs in the ankle joint. The ankle joint is composed of three bones: the tibia, the fibula, and the talus. The ligaments that connect these bones can become stretched or torn, causing an ankle sprain.

Foot Sprain Cause

A foot sprain is typically caused by a sudden twisting or turning motion of the foot. This injury can occur during sports activities, such as basketball, soccer, or gymnastics, or during everyday activities, such as walking on uneven surfaces or wearing improper footwear. Individuals who participate in high-risk activities or have a history of foot sprains may incur an increased risk of experiencing this injury. Certain medical conditions, such as weak or unstable ligaments, can also increase the risk of foot sprains.

Foot Sprain Symptoms

The symptoms of a foot sprain can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, and bruising in the affected area. The foot may also feel stiff or tender to the touch. Individuals with a foot sprain may have difficulty walking or standing on the affected foot. The foot may also feel unstable or weak, and the individual may experience a decreased range of motion in the affected joint.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

What is a foot sprain in children, and how does it happen?

A foot sprain in children refers to an injury to the ligaments. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bones to one another in the foot. Sprains occur when these ligaments are stretched or torn. This occurs during a sudden twisting, rolling, or turning of the foot. This often happens during physical activities, sports, or accidents, leading to pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected foot.

How does a doctor diagnose and treat a foot sprain in a child?

Diagnosis of a foot sprain involves a thorough physical examination by a healthcare professional, including assessing the child’s symptoms and checking for tenderness, swelling, and instability of the foot. In some cases, doctors will recommend X-rays to rule out any fractures. Treatment for a foot sprain usually includes the RICE protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. The child should rest the affected foot, apply ice to reduce swelling, use compression bandages, and keep the foot elevated to help alleviate pain and promote healing. Directors will recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to manage pain and inflammation. In more severe cases, doctors will recommend a splint or brace for support and immobilization.

What is the expected recovery time and how can parents help their child recover from a foot sprain?

The recovery time for a foot sprain in children varies depending on the severity of the sprain. Mild sprains may heal within a week or two, while more severe sprains may take several weeks or even months to fully recover. Rest and following the prescribed treatment plan are crucial for optimal recovery. Parents can assist by ensuring the child rests the affected foot, avoids putting weight on it, and follows the healthcare professional’s recommendations regarding ice, compression, elevation, and any prescribed medications. Doctors may recommend Physical therapy to help strengthen the foot and improve mobility during the recovery process.

It’s important for parents to closely monitor their child’s progress, encourage adherence to the treatment plan, and consult the healthcare provider if the child’s symptoms worsen or do not improve as expected.

The doctors at Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists, are experts in treating feet abnormalities. Call us for an appointment.

When to Call a Doctor for Your Child’s Foot Sprain

Knowing when to seek medical help for a child’s foot sprain is crucial for a swift recovery. Here are the key signs that warrant a call to your healthcare provider:

Severe Pain or Swelling: If your child experiences escalating pain or if the swelling doesn’t subside, it’s time to consult a professional.
Changes in Color or Temperature: Be alert if your child’s toes appear cool, pale, or exhibit any unusual color changes.
Tightness of the Wrap or Splint: If the wrap or splint seems too constrictive, loosen it slightly and touch base with your doctor to ensure proper circulation is maintained.
Tingling, Numbness, or Weakness: Any sensations of numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected leg or foot should not be ignored.

Monitor Your Child’s Condition

Weight Bearing Issues: Difficulty in putting weight on the injured foot signals a need for medical attention.
Fever Development: An unexplained fever can indicate an underlying issue that requires a doctor’s evaluation.
Lack of Improvement: If your child’s condition isn’t improving as anticipated, or symptoms worsen, this warrants a prompt call to your healthcare provider.

Keeping a close eye on these signs ensures your child receives the necessary care promptly, supporting a quicker and smoother recovery path.

Foot Sprain Diagnosis

Diagnosing a foot sprain typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests. During a physical exam, the doctor will assess the individual’s range of motion, strength, and reflexes. The doctor may also manipulate the foot to determine if the ligaments are stretched or torn. The doctor may order imaging tests, such as X-rays or an MRI, to provide a detailed look at the foot and confirm the diagnosis of a foot sprain.

Treatment

The treatment of a foot sprain typically involves reducing the inflammation and stabilizing the joint. This occurs through either non-surgical or surgical methods. Non-surgical methods involve rest, ice, compression, and elevation of the affected foot. The individual may also receive medication to manage the pain and inflammation. In some cases, doctors may recommend the immobilization of the limb by using a cast or brace to allow the ligaments to heal.

Doctors may recommend surgical methods in more severe cases if they cannot stabilize the ligaments through non-surgical methods. This procedure involves repairing the torn ligaments through surgery and stabilizing the joint with screws or pins. Following either non-surgical or surgical treatment, the individual will need to undergo rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility in the affected foot. Rehabilitation may involve physical therapy, exercises, and stretching to improve range of motion and strength.

What to Do If Your Child Has a Splint or Crutches for a Foot Sprain

When your child is recovering from a foot sprain and has been provided with a splint or crutches, it’s important to follow the prescribed care plan to ensure a smooth recovery.

Adhere to Usage Guidelines: Make sure your child wears the splint as prescribed by their healthcare provider. It’s designed to keep the injured area stable and promote healing.
Proper Use of Crutches: If crutches have been recommended, ensure your child knows how to use them correctly. This includes adjusting them to the right height and bearing weight appropriately to prevent further injury.
Monitor for Comfort and Fit: Regularly check that the splint fits well and is comfortable. Any signs of discomfort or changes in skin color should be promptly addressed with your child’s doctor.

By following these steps, you can significantly aid in your child’s recovery process. Always consult with your healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns regarding your child’s treatment plan.

Time to Rehabilitate

The rehabilitation time for a foot sprain can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the type of treatment received. In cases where non-surgical methods are successful, the rehabilitation time may be shorter, typically requiring several weeks or months of rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility. In more severe cases where surgery is required, the rehabilitation time may be longer, requiring several months of rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility. Doctors may suggest rehabilitation to address any lingering pain or discomfort in the foot.

Recommended Exercises for a Child Recovering from a Foot Sprain

When a child is recovering from a foot sprain, it’s essential to follow a set of exercises recommended by healthcare professionals to ensure a safe and effective recovery. These activities focus on restoring strength, flexibility, and mobility.

1. Gentle Range-of-Motion Exercises

Begin with simple movements:

Ankle Circles: Encourage your child to make slow, gentle circles with their foot. This helps maintain mobility and reduces stiffness.
Alphabet Writing: Have your child “write” the alphabet in the air with their toes. It’s a fun way to enhance flexibility and range of motion.

2. Stretching Exercises

Stretching is vital in maintaining flexibility:

Calf Stretch: This can be done by having your child stand facing a wall, placing their hands on it for support, and gently moving one leg back, ensuring the heel stays on the ground.
Towel Stretch: While sitting, your child can use a towel or resistance band wrapped around the foot to gently pull towards themselves, helping stretch the muscles.

3. Strengthening Activities

To rebuild strength:

Towel Curls: You can place a towel on the floor and instruct your child to scrunch it up using their toes. It’s a simple way to strengthen the foot muscles.
Marble Pickup: Scatter a few marbles or similar small objects on the floor and let your child pick them up with their toes and place them in a container.

4. Balance and Coordination

Improving balance can prevent future injuries:

Standing on One Leg: Challenge your child to stand on one foot for a few seconds. As they progress, increase the duration to improve stability.
Balance Board: For more advanced coordination, a balance board can engage different muscle groups and help with proprioception.

Final Thoughts

Always ensure that exercises are pain-free for your child and performed under guidance, either from a physiotherapist or with parental supervision. If any discomfort arises, cease the activity and consult your healthcare provider for further advice.

Foot Sprain Conclusion

A foot sprain is a common injury that can occur due to overuse, trauma, or poor footwear. The symptoms of a foot sprain include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected foot. Treatment options for a foot sprain include rest, ice, compression, and elevation, as well as physical therapy to help restore strength and flexibility to the affected foot. In severe cases, surgery may occur to repair any damage to the foot. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to preventing further damage and promoting a full recovery.

Why Choose Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists

Pediatric orthopedics is a specialty of our doctors and surgeons at Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists. They understand your concerns, can answer your questions regarding your child’s condition, and know how to use their specialized knowledge to assist you. Dr. Shyam Kishan, MD, and Dr. Kathryn Wiesman, MD, have many years of training and experience in bone, joint, and muscle care for children and young adults and can help you and your child get back to living the life you love.

The following are just a few of the many reasons why patients might choose Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists with offices in Arlington, Dallas, Flower Mound, Frisco, and McKinney, TX.

Expertise in pediatric orthopedics and spine: The team of specialists at Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists is are expert in the diagnosis and treatment of children.
Cutting-edge technology: Our practice uses the latest technology and techniques to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. In addition, we use minimally invasive procedures that reduce pain and promote faster recovery.
Comprehensive care: Our practice offers a full range of services, from diagnostic imaging and physical therapy to surgery. We ensure that patients receive complete, seamless care for their orthopedic and spinal conditions.
Dedicated pediatric facilities: Medical City Children’s Orthopedics and Spine Specialists are dedicated to providing children with a safe and comfortable environment.

Finally, our board-certified physicians and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons use the full range of treatments to treat growth plate fractures and return kids to the activities they enjoy. Get in touch with us today at 214-556-0590 to schedule an appointment.

____________________

Footnote:

Medline Plus: Foot Sprain

Call 214-556-0590 to make an appointment.

Comprehensive services for children from birth through adolescence at five convenient locations: Arlington, Dallas, Flower Mound, Frisco and McKinney.