22-Year-Old Female Ankle Injury - Should I Consult a Doctor?
At the age of 14, I received a diagnosis of hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Recently, on Monday, I sustained an injury to my ankle while at work. Typically, my ankles are quite flexible, which means that when I inadvertently twist them, it doesn’t typically result in a serious injury, and the discomfort subsides after a short period. When I mention a “twist,” it usually happens when I take a step, causing my ankle to buckle and forcing me to stand awkwardly on the outer side of my foot before ultimately losing my balance. However, this recent incident was different; the intensity of the pain caught me off guard. For the past couple of days, I struggled to put weight on my foot, and it has remained moderately swollen. There hasn’t been any bruising, but almost a week later, I still feel pain when attempting to move my foot or when it’s resting in specific positions. Lifting my foot up or down causes discomfort, and pivoting it left or right or turning it inward also results in pain. The soreness is primarily concentrated on the outer side of my ankle, near the prominent bone situated between my ankle and foot. Having flexible ankles has usually allowed me to avoid serious injuries, making this situation quite unfamiliar. I am uncertain whether a medical consultation is necessary or if I have merely sprained something and am overreacting. To manage my pain, I take ibuprofen and gabapentin each day, but neither medication has been effective in alleviating this specific discomfort. Any advice or guidance would be highly appreciated!
Answers (1)
3/30/2025, 8:20:34 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel uncertain after sustaining an ankle injury, especially with your history of hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. The pain, swelling, and difficulty moving your foot suggest that this injury may be more significant than what you've experienced before. While sprains are common and often heal with time, the intensity of your pain and the ongoing discomfort indicate that it might be wise to seek a professional evaluation.
Explanation:
Given your history with hypermobility, injuries can potentially involve not just sprains but also ligament damage, tendon issues, or even a possible fracture. The swelling and prolonged pain, particularly around the outer side of your ankle, are signs that your ankle may need close examination and possibly imaging (like an X-ray) to rule out any more serious injuries. It's essential to clearly understand the nature of the injury to guide your treatment effectively.
Next Steps:
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Seek Medical Attention: Given your symptoms and their duration, it is advisable to consult an orthopedic specialist or a doctor who understands hypermobility syndromes. They can conduct a thorough examination and possibly recommend imaging to assess for any damage.
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Rest and Protect Your Ankle: Continue to avoid putting weight on your injured foot as much as possible. Use crutches or a brace if available to keep pressure off the ankle.
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Ice and Elevation: Apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every couple of hours to reduce swelling. Elevate your ankle above heart level when possible to help decrease swelling.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep note of any changes in your symptoms, such as increased swelling, pain levels, or any new signs like bruising. This information will be valuable for your doctor.
While it may feel like a lot to consider, addressing your pain and ensuring your ankle heals properly is important. I encourage you to take these steps seriously for the best possible recovery. Let me know if you have more questions!
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