Foot Sprain

What is a Foot Sprain?

A foot sprain is an injury in which the arch ligaments of the foot are stretched or torn. Ligaments are bands or sheets of fibrous tissue that connect two or more bones or cartilages. They also serve as a support for fasciae and muscles.

Foot Sprain Symptoms

The following are symptoms of a foot sprain:

• Swelling/Puffiness
• Redness
• Bruising
• Increased Pain when Shifting Weight
• Warmth in the Foot

Foot Sprain Grades

There are three grades of foot sprains:

• 1st degree - Mild injury, pain, and moderate-to-severe swelling. Functionally intact.
• 2nd degree - Moderate injury with moderate-to-severe swelling. Less functionally intact. Weight bearing is difficult due to moderate/extreme pain.
• 3rd degree - Severe injury and pain with diffuse swelling. Ligaments are completely torn. Gross instability and near or complete loss of function.

Causes of a Foot Sprain

Some people will have a sprained foot at some point in their life. Usually, it is an injury that occurs when playing sports that include running, jumping, and walking. It also happens when the person lands on the side of their foot wrong, such as in a slip and fall accident.

Foot Sprain Consequences

Besides discomfort and pain, a foot sprain may also cause some degree of difficulty with normal walking. Depending on a person's job, it may be necessary to receive a note from a physician requesting light duty if a lot of standing or walking is required.

Foot Sprain Treatment

The RICE method is usually useful in treating a sprain.

• R - Rest
• I - Ice
• C - Compression
• E - Elevation

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or acetaminophen, can also help with the pain and swelling. Once the swelling and pain begins to diminish, it is recommended for the patient to start bearing weight on the injured foot again. In severe and rare cases, a cast or, possibly, surgery may be required.

Contact Us

If you or a loved one has experienced a foot sprain, please contact our Foot Injury Attorneys for a free, personal, and confidential consultation. You can contact the Law Offices of Michael Cordova at 602-265-6700.

Our attorneys not only work on foot sprain cases but in other personal injury areas, as well as criminal defense and DUI, auto accident, dog bites, wrongful death, motorcycle accidents, and product and premises liability, so please contact your local Phoenix attorneys for a free consultation.

*Contingent fees are charged on total recovery. **No Fee Guarantee applies in the event there is no recovery.