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WORK RELATED ANKLE INJURIES

Advanced Medical Strategies for a Work-Related Ankle Injury

Our ankles provide support and stability to our bodies, allowing us to be balanced and mobile when on our feet. However, when someone injures their ankle, it could make the simplest tasks significantly more difficult. It could also limit their ability to perform their work duties, potentially diminishing their income. When someone suffers an ankle injury at work, they may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits through their employer to help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and more.

When you injure your ankle on the job, you need the care of an experienced work injury doctor who will help secure your return to work. At Spine and Joint Institute of Milwaukee, this is what we do best. Our clinic will thoroughly examine your ankle injury and develop a comprehensive treatment plan to ensure a complete recovery to get you back on track. Our medical professionals are also well-versed in the workers’ compensation claims process. They will precisely document your injury and treatment, helping you and your workers’ compensation attorney build your strongest case.

Signs and Symptoms of an Ankle Injury

  • Ankle Pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Instability
  • Stiffness
  • Tenderness
  • Limited Range of Motion
  • Popping or Clicking Sensation
  • Numbness
  • Tingling

Table Of Contents

Common Causes of Ankle Injuries at Work

Common causes of ankle injuries at work can include:

  • Slips, Trips, and Falls. Uneven surfaces, slippery floors, cluttered workspaces, or objects left in walkways can lead to ankle injuries if an employee slips, trips, or falls.
  • Missteps or Misjudgments. Ankle injuries can occur when workers misjudge distances, step awkwardly, or misplace their footing, especially when working on elevated surfaces or navigating uneven terrain.
  • Lifting or Carrying Heavy Objects. Improper lifting techniques or attempting to lift objects that are too heavy can strain the ankle or cause it to twist.
  • Working at Heights. Jobs that involve working at heights, such as construction or maintenance work, increase the risk of ankle injuries due to the potential for falls from ladders, scaffolding, or elevated platforms.
  • Machinery Accidents. Ankle injuries can result from accidents involving machinery or equipment, such as getting a foot caught in moving parts or being struck by falling objects.
  • Repetitive Strain. Jobs that require repetitive movements, such as bending, kneeling, or squatting, can strain the ankle over time and lead to injuries like tendonitis or stress fractures.
  • Inadequate Footwear. Wearing improper footwear or shoes that do not provide adequate support or traction can increase the risk of ankle injuries, especially in environments with hazards such as slippery surfaces or uneven terrain.
  • Overexertion. Working long hours or performing physically demanding tasks without adequate rest or breaks can increase the risk of fatigue-related accidents, including ankle injuries.
  • Poor Ergonomics. Workstations not adequately designed or adjusted to accommodate the employee's height, posture, or movements can contribute to ankle injuries over time.
  • Lack of Training or Awareness. Employees not trained in proper safety procedures or unaware of potential workplace hazards may be more likely to suffer ankle injuries due to accidents or lack of precautions.

Common Types of Work-Related Ankle Injuries

The extent to which you can heal from an ankle injury depends on several factors, including the severity of the injury, the type of treatment received, and individual factors such as age and overall health. In many cases, with proper treatment and rehabilitation, people can fully recover from ankle injuries. Here are some common types of ankle injuries and their typical recovery times:

Ligament Injuries

Ligament injuries happen when the tough bands of tissue connecting bones at a joint are stretched, torn, or damaged due to sudden twists, impacts, overuse, or repetitive stress. These injuries can range from mild sprains to severe tears, resulting in pain, swelling, instability, and limited mobility in the affected joint. Treatment can involve rest, ice, compression, elevation, physical therapy, bracing, and sometimes surgery for severe cases. Proper rehabilitation is crucial for regaining strength, flexibility, and stability in the joint and preventing future injuries.

Tendon Injuries

Injuries to the tendons surrounding the ankle, such as Achilles tendonitis or peroneal tendon injuries, can require rest, physical therapy, and sometimes immobilization or surgery. Recovery time can vary depending on the extent of the tendon damage and the effectiveness of treatment, but many people can achieve full recovery with proper care.

Cartilage Injuries

Damage to the cartilage within the ankle joint, such as osteochondral lesions or cartilage tears, may require surgical intervention and rehabilitation to achieve complete healing. Recovery from cartilage injuries can be more complex. It may take several months to a year or longer, depending on the injury's severity and the treatment's success.

Fractures

Ankle fractures can range from minor hairline fractures to more severe breaks that require surgery. The recovery time for fractures can vary significantly depending on the type and severity of the fracture and the treatment approach. Minor fractures may heal within a few weeks with immobilization and physical therapy, while more severe fractures may take several months to heal completely.

It's important to follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for treatment and rehabilitation to optimize your chances of a full recovery. In some cases, particularly with more severe injuries, there may be lingering symptoms or limitations even after healing is complete. Additionally, taking steps to prevent future injuries, such as strengthening exercises, proper footwear, and avoiding risky activities, can help protect your ankles in the long term.

AFTER AN Ankle INJURY

Steps to Recovery With an Ankle Injury

If you've injured your ankle at work, taking immediate steps to ensure proper care and recovery is essential. Everyone's recovery process from an injured ankle differs, so be patient with yourself and give your body the time it needs to heal properly. Here's what you should do:

If the injury is severe, seek immediate medical attention. If the ankle injury is minor, ensure it receives proper first aid. Elevate the ankle if possible and apply ice to reduce swelling.

Inform your supervisor or HR department about the injury as soon as possible. This is important for documentation of the ankle injury and to initiate any necessary workers' compensation claims.

If you've seen a doctor for your ankle injury, follow their instructions carefully. This may include using crutches, wearing a brace, or keeping weight off the injured ankle.

Rest is crucial for healing. Keep your ankle elevated whenever possible to reduce swelling. Avoid putting weight on it unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional.

Apply ice packs to the injured area for 15-20 minutes every few hours to reduce swelling. Compression bandages can also help stabilize the ankle and reduce swelling.

Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation. Follow the dosage instructions on the packaging.

Depending on the severity of the injury, your doctor may recommend physical therapy to help regain strength and flexibility in your ankle.

While resting is necessary, try to stay as active as possible without putting strain on your injured ankle. This could involve gentle exercises recommended by your doctor or engaging in activities that don't aggravate the injury.

Attend any follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

Keep your employer informed about your progress and any limitations you may have while recovering. This will help them make any necessary accommodations to support your return to work when you're ready.

In the state of Wisconsin under Worker's Compensation Law, Statute 102.42(2)(a) of the Worker's Compensation Act, you are allowed to choose your own healthcare provider, and states in part, “…the employer shall offer to the injured employee his or her choice of any physician, chiropractor, psychologist, dentist, physician assistant, advanced nurse prescriber, or podiatrist licensed to practice…”

WHAT TO EXPECT

Treatments for Work-Related Ankle Injuries

Common treatments for work-related ankle injuries typically involve a combination of therapies and, in some cases, more advanced medical interventions. The specific treatment approach will depend on the nature and severity of the ankle injury and individual factors such as age, overall health, and job requirements. Individuals with a work-related ankle injury need to follow their healthcare provider's recommendations for treatment and rehabilitation to optimize recovery and minimize the risk of recurrence. Here are some common treatments:

Rest

Resting the injured ankle is crucial to allow the tissues to heal correctly. This may involve reducing or avoiding weight-bearing activities for some time.

Ice Therapy

Applying ice to the injured ankle can help reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation. Using ice for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours during the first two days following the injury is generally recommended.

Compression

Wrapping the ankle with an elastic bandage or wearing a compression sleeve can help reduce swelling and support the injured area.

Elevation

Elevating the injured ankle above the level of the heart can help reduce swelling by promoting fluid drainage from the injured tissues.

Pain Management

Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help alleviate ankle pain and discomfort associated with the injury.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy exercises and modalities can help improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the ankle joint, promote proper healing, and prevent future injuries.

Bracing or Immobilization

In some cases, wearing a brace, splint, or walking boot may be necessary to immobilize the ankle and allow it to heal properly, especially for more severe injuries or fractures.

Rehabilitation Exercises

Once the acute healing phase has passed, specific rehabilitation exercises can help restore the ankle joint's function and stability.

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy may be recommended to assist with a safe return to work, including ergonomic assessments, job modification, and functional rehabilitation.

Surgical Intervention

In cases of severe ankle injuries, such as fractures or ligament tears that do not respond to conservative treatment, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage and restore stability to the ankle joint.

ANKLE INJURIES AT WORK

Common Types of Work-Related Ankle Injuries

Common types of ankle injuries that can occur in the workplace include:

Fractured Ankle. A fracture or break in one or more bones that make up the ankle joint can occur due to a fall, impact, or other trauma.

Achilles Tendon Rupture. The Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, can tear or rupture, often due to sudden force or overuse.

Tendonitis. Inflammation of the tendons around the ankle, such as the Achilles tendon or the peroneal tendons, can result from overuse, repetitive motion, or sudden injury.

Ankle Contusions. The ankle bones or soft tissues can bruise due to impact or trauma, such as being hit by a falling object or bumping into equipment.

Ankle Strains. Like sprains, strains involve stretching or tearing muscles or tendons around the ankle joint. They can result from overstretching, overuse, or sudden twisting movements.

Ankle Dislocation. This occurs when the ankle joint bones are forced out of their normal position, often due to a severe impact or twisting injury.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. Compression or irritation of the tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel (a narrow space on the inside of the ankle) can lead to pain, numbness, and tingling in the ankle and foot.

These injuries can occur in various workplace settings, including offices, construction sites, factories, warehouses, and healthcare facilities. Preventive measures such as proper training, appropriate footwear, maintaining a clean and safe work environment, and implementing ergonomic practices can help reduce the risk of ankle injuries in the workplace.

HOW WE HELP YOU

Contact Spine and Joint Institute of Milwaukee Today

At Spine and Joint Institute of Milwaukee, our compassionate medical professionals care deeply about your health and well-being, and your recovery is our priority. We stand ready to provide the comprehensive treatment you need while helping build a strong workers’ compensation case for your attorney, in order to secure your return to work.

We Can Get You Back to Work

If you or a loved one has experienced an ankle injury, contact Spine and Joint Institute of Milwaukee right away. Our team is here to provide the support and care you need to navigate the challenges of work-related injury recovery while documenting your treatment properly for your workers’ compensation claim. We work closely with our patients and help ensure a swift recovery, a stress-free workers' compensation claims process, and a safe return to work.

Dr. Kelly of Spine and Joint Institute

If you are not receiving proper care for your injury, you have the right under Wisconsin Workers' Compensation Law to choose your own doctor and to get a second opinion.

- Dr. Kelly

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2500 W Lincoln Ave,
Milwaukee, WI 53215

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