In the last game of 2013, the New York Giants’ Eli Manning sustained a high ankle sprain. He was hit by a defensive on the opposing team and his leg twisted as he fell to the ground. He continued to play in the first half of the game but opted to sit out for the second half. He left the stadium wearing a boot and using crutches.
Low ankle sprains are common and differ from high ankle sprains. High angle sprains typically result from a rotational or twisting injury of the leg. Impact sports are generally the cause of these types of sprains.
Low ankle sprains are usually caused by the foot moving beyond its normal range of motion. Ankle sprains are common in running and sports that require switching directions quickly.
In either type of sprain, the amount of pain is dependent upon the severity of the stretching or tearing of the ligaments. The high ankle sprain will generally take longer to heal.
The recovery for a high ankle sprain usually includes roughly six weeks in a cast or boot. Low ankle sprains are treated with elastic bandages, ice, compression and rest. Surgery or non-surgical treatments such as Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy and Stem Cell Therapy for either sprain may be necessary for complete ligament tears.
In either injury, rehabilitation and strengthening is critical for a complete recovery. The longer the ankle is immobilized, the tougher the strengthening process will be. The joint will be stiff and require consistent exercise, including but not limited to, stabilization exercises and range of motion training. The qualified physical therapists at Cross Bay Physical Therapy in Howard Beach, NY can design an appropriate and progressive treatment plan to aid in the restoration of ankle stability.
Manning is expected to wear his boot for several weeks. The beginning of the offseason means Manning can devote appropriate time to rest, recovery and rehabilitation.
By Benjamin Bieber