Sprain and strain treatment in Westmont, IL

A bad sprain and a broken bone can look and feel the same. Doctors often use the Ottawa ankle rules, described in the journal American Family Physician, to decide who needs an X-ray after an ankle or foot injury:

• Pain near the ankle bones, plus tenderness at the back edge or tip of either ankle bone
• Pain in the middle of the foot, plus tenderness at the outer edge of the foot or the bone on the inner arch
• Not being able to take four steps right after the injury and at the exam

If none of these apply, a broken bone is very unlikely. If any do, an X-ray helps confirm or rule out a fracture. Learn more on our fracture evaluation page, or read when to worry about a sprained ankle.

NIAMS explains that sprains are graded from first to third degree, based on how badly the ligament is stretched or torn.

Pain that is mostly in the muscle, with spasms or weakness when you use it, points more toward a strain. See our twisted ankle, wrist or knee guide for more help sorting out joint pain.

NIAMS says many sprains and strains can be treated at home with R.I.C.E. MedlinePlus explains each step:

• Rest: avoid putting stress on the injury for the first few days.
• Ice: apply ice wrapped in a cloth, never directly on skin. American Family Physician notes that cold therapy in the first 3 to 7 days reduces pain and speeds recovery.
• Compression: wrap the area firmly but not tightly. Loosen it if your toes or fingers tingle or turn pale.
• Elevation: keep the injured limb raised above the level of your heart, even while sleeping.
• Pain relief: ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help when taken as the label directs. Do not give aspirin to children.

MedlinePlus advises contacting a provider if swelling has not started to improve within 2 days, if you see signs of infection such as red, warm skin or fever, or if pain lasts for several weeks. Swelling can linger longer than pain. Read how long a sprained ankle stays swollen.

Children and teens: a child's bones are still growing, so a limp or a joint that will not bear weight after a fall should be checked rather than watched. Athletes: American Family Physician notes that a balance and strength training program before returning to sport greatly lowers the risk of another ankle injury. Our sports physicals are a good time to review past injuries.

Older adults: a fall onto an outstretched hand or a twisted ankle can cause a break that looks like a sprain. An X-ray is often the only way to know, so get checked after any fall that leaves pain or swelling.

NIAMS lists common risk factors such as poor technique, overtraining, ramping up too fast, hard surfaces, unsupportive shoes, poor flexibility and a prior injury. To lower your risk:

• Warm up and stretch before sports or yard work.
• Increase training time and intensity slowly.
• Wear shoes that fit well and support your feet.
• Rebuild strength and balance fully after any sprain.
• Use salt, good boots and handrails on icy Illinois sidewalks and steps in winter.
• Lift with your legs, keep loads close, and ask for help with heavy items.

We accept most major insurance plans, including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Humana, UnitedHealthcare and Medicare. Call (630) 324-6825 to confirm your plan, or see our cost and insurance page. Self-pay general visits start from $125. If you are paying on your own, ask about X-ray costs before imaging is done.