Physical Therapy in Deer Park
A knee or ankle sprain is a common soft tissue injury affecting the ligaments, the tough bands of tissue that connect bones and stabilize joints. Sprains occur when these ligaments are stretched or torn, usually due to sudden twists, impacts, or falls.
These injuries are common among athletes but can also occur during everyday activities, such as walking on uneven surfaces or slipping on wet floors. If you’re dealing with a recent sprain or ongoing joint instability, Within Normal Limits Physical Therapy in Deer Park is here to help you recover and regain full mobility.
Causes of Knee and Ankle Sprains
Physical Therapy in Deer Park
- Sports Injuries – Fast-paced sports like basketball, soccer, football, or trail running often involve cutting, jumping, or uneven surfaces that put stress on ligaments.
- Falls or Missteps – A sudden twist or awkward landing can easily result in a sprained knee or ankle, especially if the joint moves beyond its normal range of motion.
- Improper Footwear or Weak Muscles – Wearing shoes without support or having weak stabilizing muscles can increase your risk of sprains.
Both ankle sprains (often involving the lateral ligaments) and knee sprains (commonly involving the ACL, MCL, or LCL) can vary in severity from mild overstretching to complete tears.
Symptoms of a Knee or Ankle Sprain
If you suspect you’ve suffered a sprain, watch for the following signs:
- Pain at the site of the injury
- Swelling and bruising
- Instability or difficulty bearing weight
- Popping or snapping sensation at the time of injury
- Limited range of motion
Mild sprains may only cause minor discomfort, while more severe sprains can make walking or moving extremely difficult.
Treatment Options
The first step in treatment often involves the R.I.C.E. method: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. However, for full recovery and to prevent future injuries, a guided rehabilitation plan is essential.
At Within Normal Limits Physical Therapy in Deer Park, we create custom plans that may include:
- Range of Motion Exercises – Gentle stretching to maintain joint mobility without stressing healing ligaments.
- Strengthening Workouts – Focusing on surrounding muscles like the calves, quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes for added joint support.
- Balance and Proprioception Training – Helping the body relearn how to stabilize itself and avoid re-injury.
- Manual Therapy and Modalities – Hands-on treatment to reduce swelling, improve mobility, and speed up healing.
In severe cases or when conservative care is unsuccessful, you may be referred for imaging or an orthopedic consultation; however, in many cases, physical therapy is effective on its own.
Contact Within Normal Limits Physical Therapy in Deer Park
Sprains may seem minor, but without proper care, they can lead to chronic instability or recurring injuries. Whether you’ve suffered a mild ankle sprain or a serious knee ligament injury, getting expert care is essential.
If you’re looking for Physical Therapy in Deer Park, our team at Within Normal Limits is ready to help you recover fully and safely. Click here to schedule your appointment and get back to the activities you love.