Ankle Sprains Hurt, But Recovery Doesn’t Have To: Get Specialized Foot & Ankle Care Today
Meet Our Experienced Foot & Ankle Specialist
Dr Tang Zhi Hao is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon, specializing in foot & ankle surgery as well as general orthopaedic surgery. He had graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) with distinction in Biochemistry from the National University of Singapore (NUS) in 2006. In 2018, after completing his specialist training in Singapore, he attained his Fellowship with the College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and was accredited by the Specialist Accreditation Board (SAB). Under the Ministry of Health’s Health Manpower Development Plan (HMDP) programme, Dr Tang completed a clinical fellowship in foot and ankle surgery at Severance Hospital (Yonsei University Health System) in Seoul, one of South Korea’s largest hospitals, under the tutelage of Professor Jin Woo Lee, then President of the International Federation of Foot and Ankle Societies (IFFAS).
His clinical expertise includes hallux valgus (bunion) correction, ligament repair for ankle sprains and ankle arthroscopy. He has a keen interest in the management of common foot and ankle conditions such as pes planus (flatfoot), pes cavus (high arch), painful heel conditions such as plantar fasciitis & achilles tendon disorders, ankle arthritis, osteochondral lesions, ingrown toenails as well as foot & ankle fractures. During his time in KTPH, Dr Tang was also part of the multi-disciplinary Diabetic Foot Unit (DFU), treating patients with diabetic foot infections. Additionally, he manages a broad range of general orthopaedic conditions, including fractures, hip & knee conditions, sports injuries and spine disorders.
What is an Ankle Sprain?
An ankle sprain happens when the ligaments that support your ankle stretch or tear, often due to sudden twisting or rolling of the ankle. While common, sprains can range from mild to severe, and proper treatment is crucial for preventing long-term damage.
Left untreated, an ankle sprain can lead to chronic issues such as instability, re-injury, and arthritis. Repeated sprains weaken the ligaments, making the ankle more susceptible to further injuries. Chronic pain and swelling are also common in patients who ignore their sprains or receive inadequate care.
Symptoms of an Ankle Sprain
It can be hard to know when an ankle sprain needs professional attention. Here are some symptoms that it’s time to consult a specialist:
- Pain and tenderness around the ankle joint
- Swelling or bruising
- Difficulty walking or standing
- Feeling of instability or ankle “giving out”
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a foot & ankle specialist to avoid further damage and speed up your recovery.
Why See a Foot & Ankle Specialist for an Ankle Sprain?
While some mild sprains may heal with rest, more severe or recurring sprains need specialized attention to ensure full recovery and prevent future injury. A foot and ankle specialist has in-depth knowledge of the complex anatomy of your foot and ankle, allowing them to offer targeted treatment that promotes faster healing and reduces the risk of chronic pain or instability.
Ignoring an ankle sprain can lead to long-term issues, including chronic ankle instability, frequent re-injury, or even arthritis. Getting expert care early helps you heal correctly the first time.
Our Approach to Treating Ankle Sprains
During your initial consultation, our specialist will assess the extent of the injury through a physical examination, and if necessary, imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs. This helps us understand whether the sprain involves ligament tears or associated fractures.
Every ankle sprain is different. Based on the severity of your sprain, we’ll develop a customized treatment plan that may include rest, rehabilitation exercises, bracing, and if necessary, surgery for severe cases.
For mild sprains, our specialist will guide you on how to manage the injury at home with the Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation – R.I.C.E method. We’ll also recommend short-term use of braces or crutches to protect your ankle during healing.
Our rehabilitation plan includes targeted exercises that improve flexibility, restore strength, and prevent future injuries. This step is critical for avoiding long-term instability.
In more severe cases, we may use braces, splints, or even casts to protect your ankle and ensure proper healing.
For severe or recurrent sprains, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged ligaments or remove loose bone fragments. Our specialist is trained in minimally invasive techniques to ensure quicker recovery.
Holistic Care for Foot and Ankle Health
At Alpha Joints & Orthopaedics Clinic, we don’t just treat plantar fasciitis. We provide comprehensive care for all foot and ankle conditions, from sports injuries to chronic pain management. Our holistic approach ensures that we address your needs, not just the injury. Whether you’re recovering from a sprain or dealing with other orthopaedic issues, we’re here to help you maintain optimal foot and ankle health.
List of Other Conditions Treated:
- Ankle Sprains
- Bunions
- Achilles Tendon Disorders
- Foot and Ankle Fractures
Why Choose Alpha Joints & Orthopaedics?
Personalised treatment for patients
of all ages
Commitment to exceed
patient expectation
Conveniently located in Farrer Park, Gleneagles, Novena and Orchard
Frequently Asked Questions
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments in your ankle are stretched or torn due to a sudden twist, roll, or awkward movement. Common symptoms include pain and tenderness around the ankle, swelling, bruising, difficulty walking, and a feeling of instability in the joint. If you experience these symptoms, it’s important to rest the ankle, apply ice, and seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis to determine the severity of the sprain.
The healing time for an ankle sprain varies depending on its severity. Mild sprains, also known as Grade 1 sprains, typically heal within 1-2 weeks with rest, ice, and proper care. Moderate sprains, or Grade 2 injuries, may take 3-6 weeks to fully recover, and these often require physical therapy to restore strength and mobility. Severe sprains, classified as Grade 3, can take several months to heal and might need immobilization or, in rare cases, surgery. Following a treatment plan prescribed by a specialist can help speed up the recovery process.
It’s advisable to see a doctor for an ankle sprain, especially if you are unable to put weight on the injured ankle, if there is significant swelling or bruising, or if the pain doesn’t improve after a few days of rest and home treatment. Additionally, if you’ve had multiple ankle sprains in the past, it’s important to seek medical attention to prevent further damage. A doctor can accurately assess the injury, rule out fractures, and provide a personalized treatment plan to aid your recovery.
Yes, if an ankle sprain is left untreated or improperly managed, it can lead to long-term problems. One of the most common complications is chronic ankle instability, where the ankle remains weak and prone to giving way during activities. Recurring sprains are also possible because the ligaments may not heal fully, making the ankle more vulnerable to future injuries. In severe cases, repeated sprains can eventually lead to arthritis in the joint. Seeking early treatment and following through with rehabilitation are crucial for preventing these long-term issues.
Discover Effective Solutions for Foot and Ankle Sprains
Don’t let foot and ankle sprains slow you down. Book your appointment today and start your journey to pain-free movement.