Should You Massage A Sprained Ankle? Learn The Truth Now!

Spraining your ankle can be a painful and debilitating experience, especially if you are an active person. It can happen suddenly while playing sports or simply walking on uneven ground.

Most people know that rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) are the basic steps for treating a sprained ankle. However, some questions remain unanswered, such as whether it’s safe to massage the affected area or not.

“The truth is, there is no simple answer to this question. There are many factors to consider before deciding whether massaging an ankle sprain is beneficial or harmful.”

In this article, we will take a closer look at what happens during an ankle sprain, why it may or may not be helpful to massage the injury, and what precautions you should take to prevent further damage.

We’ll also cover alternative treatments that you can try to speed up your recovery time.

So, keep reading to learn everything you need to know about handling a sprained ankle and decide for yourself whether or not you should massage it!

Understanding Sprained Ankles: Causes and Symptoms

What is a Sprained Ankle?

A sprained ankle occurs when the ligaments that connect the bones of the foot and leg are stretched or torn, usually as a result of the ankle twisting unnaturally. This can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the joint.

Sprained ankles can range from mild to severe depending on the extent of the damage to the ligaments. It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have sprained your ankle, especially if you experience severe pain or difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg.

Common Causes of Sprained Ankles

The most common cause of a sprained ankle is an accident that causes the foot to twist beyond its normal range of motion. Activities such as running, jumping, or landing awkwardly after a fall or misstep can also lead to sprains.

Wearing improper footwear or playing sports on uneven surfaces can increase the risk of ankle sprains. Weak muscles in the legs and ankles, and previous injuries to the same area can also make someone more susceptible to spraining their ankles.

Symptoms of a Sprained Ankle

Symptoms of a sprained ankle can vary depending on the severity of the injury but typically include:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Limited mobility
• Tenderness to the touch
• An audible popping or tearing sound at the time of injury (in severe cases)

If the sprain is severe, it may be difficult or impossible to move the affected joint. Seeking prompt medical attention can help prevent further injury and ensure proper healing.

“If the ankle is swollen, tender to the touch, or very painful when bearing weight, it’s time to see a doctor.”

-Dr. DeOrio from Duke Health

Should You Massage A Sprained Ankle?

If you have suffered a sprained ankle, you may be wondering whether massage therapy can help alleviate your symptoms or promote faster healing. While some people find that gentle massage of the affected area can provide relief from pain and inflammation, there are some important factors to consider before attempting self-massage on a sprained ankle.

In general, massage therapy should only be performed by a trained professional who understands how to properly manipulate soft tissues without causing further damage. Attempting to massage a sprained ankle yourself could lead to increased swelling, bruising, or other complications.

The immediate treatment for a sprained ankle typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (known as RICE). This allows the body to begin repairing damaged tissues and reducing inflammation. After resting the ankle for a few days, you may begin using gentle range-of-motion exercises to improve flexibility and strengthen the surrounding muscles.

If you wish to seek massage therapy for a sprained ankle, it is important to choose a licensed therapist with experience treating this type of injury. They can work with you to develop a treatment plan that promotes healing while avoiding any further damage to the affected joint.

The Bottom Line

Sprained ankles are a common injury that can cause significant pain and impaired mobility if left untreated. It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have sprained your ankle to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. While massage therapy may be beneficial in some cases, it is important to exercise caution and work with a trained professional to avoid further injury.

The Pros and Cons of Massaging a Sprained Ankle

A sprained ankle is a common injury that can happen to anyone. It occurs when the ligaments in your ankle are stretched or torn due to sudden movements, falls, or twisting of the foot. Massage therapy has been used by many people as a way to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and speed up the healing process of a sprained ankle.

Benefits of Massaging a Sprained Ankle

Massaging a sprained ankle can have several benefits for the body’s recovery from this type of injury. The following are potential advantages:

• Reduces swelling: Massage helps to boost blood flow around the injured area and stimulates lymphatic drainage, which reduces puffiness and swelling.
• Increase flexibility: Regular massage can improve range of motion in the affected joint by breaking down adhesions and increasing tissue elasticity.
• Promotes proper circulation: Massage therapy helps direct freshly oxygenated blood towards the damaged region, facilitating faster nutrient delivery critical to faster healing.
• Alleviates muscle tension: Tight muscles are typical after an ankle sprain; massage can help loosen these up and provide much-needed relief from any soreness or discomfort.
• Better sleep quality: Getting regular massages can also help promote restful sleep, allowing the body to dedicate more energy towards healing itself overnight.

Possible Risks of Massaging a Sprained Ankle

While there are various benefits associated with massaging a sprained ankle, it’s still essential to be aware of possible problems or risks that this type of treatment has. The following are some potential side effects:

• Aggravated pain: If not performed appropriately, aggressive massage could worsen existing ankle pains making the healing slower.
• Increased inflammation: Massage therapy can inadvertently cause over-stimulation in the affected site and lead to increased swelling or redness.
• Delayed recovery: If you apply pressure incorrectly, that could prolong your recover time, working to heal one problem but introducing another instead.

When Massaging is Not Recommended

Even though massages offer numerous advantages for sprained ankles, there are situations where they should be avoided altogether.

• Inflammation: If running a fever or suffering from an acute infection, consider avoiding massages to avoid further complicating your situation. This also applies if your sprain is fresh; the primary goal would be reducing inflammation with ice application to minimize subsequent complications like stiffness and pain before exploring other options.
• Bruising: It’s common to experience bruising when dealing with ankle injuries. During such periods, depending on your skin sensitivity and severity, massaging directly to areas with bruises can lead to more damage than relief.
• Instability: Avoid massaging any joint which feels weak, as it may be already unstable due to existing trauma.
• Discomfort during massage: Never hesitate to speak up if you feel any discomfort during the massage; critical mistakes made by the therapist might result in severe injury causing long-term joint damage.

Consulting a Professional for Massage Therapy

Massaging a sprained ankle is typically something that should be handled by an experienced professional masseuse who understands all the nuances of injury, joint alignment and muscular distress. Do not attempt self-massage if you’re in extreme pain or do not have sufficient expertise to perform the massage thoroughly.

“Never use force. Never cause harm. Always provide enough comfort”- David Palmer

If you are considering massaging your sprained ankle, consult with a licensed massage therapist first, and ask questions about their experience handling similar injuries whether it might lead to long-term damage since there’s no reasonable limit when taking precautions on guidance regarding our own bodies.

A combination of ice therapy, rest, physiotherapy and massage can significantly amplify healing time as each corresponding treatment provides beneficial choices for agony relief and speedy recovery. Don’t delay seeking medical help – see healthcare provider/doctor immediately if experiencing severe sprain symptoms such as swelling, noticeable instability or limited mobility. Play your cards right, follow through with proper treatment, and get back stronger than ever!

When Is the Best Time to Massage a Sprained Ankle?

A sprained ankle is one of the most common injuries experienced in sports, exercise, and daily activities. It can be painful, limiting your ability to engage in physical activity, but massaging the affected area has been known to provide relief from some symptoms.

Timing of Massage for Pain Relief

The timing of massage for pain relief depends on the severity of the injury. Immediate massage may worsen the condition if done incorrectly. As such, it is best to wait 48-72 hours before beginning any form of massage therapy. Once that timeframe has passed, gently massaging the area around your ankle can help alleviate pain and discomfort. However, you should avoid putting pressure directly on the sprained ligament as this can cause further damage.

“You must give time to your body to adapt to repairs naturally before attempting anything on it,” says Dr. Jessica Emery, PT, DPT, CSCS.

Timing of Massage for Swelling Reduction

If swelling accompanies your sprained ankle, massaging too soon or with too much pressure could increase inflammation and impede recovery. In general, applying ice to reduce swelling immediately after an injury is important and highly recommended. After 48-72 hours without significant swelling, massage can help stimulate the lymphatic system to remove fluid build-up around the affected area and reduce swelling at about two weeks after the initial injury.

“The appropriate treatment during the acute inflammatory phase involves protection, rest, compression, elevation, and ice within 24-72 hours,” advises Dr. Mike Reinold, PT, DPT, ATC.

Timing of Massage for Rehabilitation

Incorporating massage therapy into your rehabilitation plan can help speed up the recovery process and prevent further injuries. But, timing is essential as too much pressure or stretching at improper points in your rehabilitation could set you back weeks if not months.

The best time to perform massage therapy will depend on the severity of injury and healing progress. Recovery from first-degree sprained ankle may take less than two weeks whilst severe ones can last upto a few months; During this period, massage techniques vary by phase (acute, subacute, or chronic). In general, it is recommended that massage be performed when swelling has subsided, but mobility and flexibility are still limited. A professional massage therapist specialized in sports injury treatment must create a personalised rehabilitation program once allowed.

Consulting a Professional for Timing Recommendations

If you’re unsure about when or how often to massage your sprained ankle for optimal healing benefits, it’s advisable to see a professional who specializes in sports injury therapy. They have the knowledge and skills required to assess the type of injury and devise an appropriate regimen following each stage until complete recovery. Personalized recommendations assist with promoting quicker healing and reducing pain levels throughout your rehabilitation journey so do not hesitate to ask!

Types of Massages That Can Help with a Sprained Ankle

A sprained ankle is a common injury that can happen to anyone. It usually occurs when you twist or roll your ankle in an awkward position, causing the ligaments to stretch or tear. This kind of injury can be painful and can make it difficult for you to walk or put weight on your injured foot.

If you suffer from a sprained ankle, massaging the affected area may help alleviate pain and promote faster healing. However, not all massages are created equal. Here are three types of massages that can specifically benefit those who have suffered from a sprained ankle:

Swedish Massage

Swedish massage is one of the most popular types of massages in the world. It involves long strokes, kneading, and circular movements on the body’s topmost layers of muscles. The goal of Swedish massage is to relax the entire body, reduce stress levels, and improve circulation.

This type of massage may also be beneficial to people who have suffered from a sprained ankle. The gentle pressure applied during the massage can stimulate blood flow to the affected area and help reduce swelling. Additionally, the relaxing effect of the massage can provide relief from pain and discomfort.

“Swedish massage can enhance the body’s natural ability to heal itself by increasing blood flow and removing metabolic waste products.” – University of Minnesota

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage uses intense pressure and slow strokes to reach deeper muscle layers and connective tissues. This type of massage is commonly used to treat chronic pain, injuries, and musculoskeletal disorders.

Deep tissue massage may also be helpful for individuals who have sprained their ankle. The deep pressure applied during the massage can help break up scar tissue and reduce muscle tension around the affected area. This can lead to increased blood flow, which promotes healing and reduces inflammation.

“Deep tissue massage is an effective treatment option for chronic pain conditions such as arthritis and sciatica.” – National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

Trigger Point Therapy

Trigger point therapy focuses on relieving trigger points, which are tight areas within the muscles that can cause pain in other parts of the body. The therapist will apply intermittent pressure to these trigger points to release the tension built-up in the muscles and alleviate pain.

This type of massage may be beneficial to individuals who have sprained their ankle. Trigger point therapy can help loosen the muscles around the ankle joint and relieve any tension or knots that may have developed due to the injury. By releasing trigger points within the muscles, pain and discomfort can be reduced.

“Trigger point therapy can be highly effective for addressing musculoskeletal pain.” – American Massage Therapy Association

If you suffer from a sprained ankle, massaging the affected area can be beneficial. Swedish massage can promote relaxation and improve circulation, while deep tissue massage and trigger point therapy can target specific areas of tension and promote healing. However, it’s important to consult with your doctor before starting any form of massage therapy to ensure that it’s safe and appropriate for your individual needs.

Alternative Therapies to Consider for Sprained Ankle Relief

Spraining your ankle can cause a lot of pain, and it may take several weeks or even months to completely heal. In the meantime, there are a number of alternative therapies you can try to help relieve your discomfort.

Acupuncture

If you’re looking for a natural remedy to ease your sprained ankle pains, acupuncture might be worth considering. During an acupuncture session, needles are inserted into specific points on the body that correspond with various functions or systems in the body. Studies have shown that acupuncture can help reduce pain and inflammation, which is why it’s often recommended as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical treatments.

In one study published in the Journal of Physiotherapy, researchers found that patients who underwent acupuncture experienced greater relief from their symptoms than those who received traditional physiotherapy alone. Another review in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine suggested that combining acupuncture with traditional Chinese herbal medicine could also be helpful for treating ankle sprains.

Keep in mind that while acupuncture is generally considered safe, it’s important to consult with a licensed practitioner to ensure that you’re receiving proper care.

Chiropractic Care

Another option for managing your sprained ankle is chiropractic care. Chiropractors use hands-on manipulation techniques to realign the body’s musculoskeletal system, helping to restore balance and function to the affected area.

A 2014 systematic review published in The Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that manual therapy (such as chiropractic adjustments) could significantly reduce pain and improve overall function in people with ankle sprains, compared to exercise alone. And unlike some other therapies, chiropractic care has very few side effects, making it a safe option for many people.

It’s important to note that not all chiropractors are trained in treating ankle injuries. Look for a practitioner who has experience working with sprained ankles specifically, and be sure to discuss any concerns or questions you may have before starting treatment.

If you’re dealing with the discomfort of a sprained ankle, know that there are plenty of alternative therapies out there that can provide relief. Whether you choose acupuncture, chiropractic care, or some other form of natural healing, taking steps to support your body’s natural process of healing can make all the difference.

How to Prevent Ankle Sprains in the Future

Proper Footwear

Wearing proper footwear is one of the most critical steps you can take to reduce your risk of ankle sprain again in the future. Shoes that fit correctly and provide ample support work wonders in keeping your feet safe from harm.

Avoid shoes with high heels or shoes that lack sufficient cushioning, such as sandals or flip-flops. These types of shoes offer little protection to your ankles and could end up worsening your condition.

“The right shoe can make a big difference in preventing ankle injuries.” –Dr. Michael Dreyer

Strength and Balance Exercises

Ankles that are stronger and well-balanced are less likely to experience sprains than those that are not. Consequently, incorporating strength and balance training into your regular workout routine can help prevent similar strains in the future.

There are several ways to train your calves and ankle muscles for more strength and flexibility. Try exercises like heel raises, ankle circles, and foot flexes daily to enhance your lower body’s stability.

“Improving strength, flexibility, range of motion, and balance can all decrease the likelihood of suffering an ankle sprain.” –Ryan Simovitch, MD, sports medicine expert

Avoiding Uneven Surfaces

Walking or running on uneven surfaces increases your risk of tripping and subsequently twisting your ankle. If there’s any indication of dangerous terrain coming up, it may be best to avoid that area altogether, if possible.

If you must walk or run on irregular ground, pay extra attention to where you’re going and emphasize precise footing rather than speed. Avoid wearing headphones so that your senses remain alert to changes in the ground around you.

“To avoid ankle injuries, people should be mindful of where they walk and understand if the surface beneath them is uneven.” –Dr. Podiatrist Jane Andersen.

Consulting a Professional for Recommendations

If you’ve experienced an ankle sprain before or don’t know what to do to prevent one from happening, it might be time to seek professional advice from a physical therapist, podiatrist, or sports medicine expert.

The professionals are trained in recognizing potential vulnerabilities that put individuals at risk of sustaining ankle sprains again. They can offer guidance on proper techniques, foot care, exercises, and footwear selection based on your unique lifestyle and medical history.

“Professional athletes work with a team of specialists to help keep their feet healthy and injury-free. Everyone can likewise benefit from seeing a specialist like a physical therapist or podiatrist,” -Ned Buckley, founder, and director of Surf Coast Physiotherapy and Pilates clinic.

Preventing another ankle sprain does not require any drastic measures but rather small adjustments to protect the joint’s safety and stability. By following these prevention tips, you can quickly recover from an ankle sprain and reduce your chance of further injury in the future. Remember that preventing a second sprained ankle is easier than treating one!

Frequently Asked Questions