Ankle Injuries: When is it time call the doctor? Dr. J.P. Rodriguez gives expert advice on when you can treat an ankle injury from home.
Walking, running and being active outdoors is one of the safest ways to exercise while practicing social distancing during the coronavirus pandemic. Texas Orthopedics physicians have seen an increase in ankle injuries including ankle sprains, strains and even broken bones as more people are exercising outdoors.
To help answer some of the most frequently asked questions about ankle injuries and when to see an orthopedic surgeon, Texas Orthopedics sports medicine specialist Dr. J.P. Rodriguez hosted a Facebook Live event to provide timely information for patients.
According to Dr. Rodriguez, one of the most common causes of ankle injuries is rolling the ankle. This can cause pain, swelling, bruising and sometimes even a popping noise when the injury occurs. Many times, a mild sprain can be treated from home using the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, elevation). If the pain does not improve, the swelling continues or you are concerned, Dr. Rodriguez recommends making an appointment for evaluation.
Watch the Facebook Live video to hear Dr. Rodriguez discuss:
- Guidelines known as the Ottawa ankle rules that orthopedic surgeons and emergency room doctors follow to help determine the need for diagnostic imaging (x-ray) for an ankle injury.
- When is it safe to exercise after an ankle injury?
- Should you wear an ankle brace?
For a more specific interactive tool for foot pain prior to a doctor’s visit, Dr. Rodriguez suggests the Foot Pain Identifier, which was created by foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Stephen Pinney.
About Dr. J.P. Rodriguez
J.P. Rodriguez, MD is an orthopaedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, arthroscopy and biologic treatments. During his fellowship training under Dr. James Andrews, Dr. Rodriguez treated some of the best athletes in the world, including players from the NHL, NFL, NBA, and MLB. He has extensive training in the treatment of “Tommy John” injuries (Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction) and youth injury prevention.
He was selected for the prestigious Herodicus Society traveling fellowship as one of the most promising young surgeons in the country. Dr. Rodriguez currently volunteers his time as the team physician for Cedar Park High School and formally for the Texas Stars hockey team.
Dr. J.P. Rodriguez is an active member of the teaching faculty of Dell Medical School’s Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program where he is working to advance the field of musculoskeletal care and training the next generation of physicians and surgeons.
