Newly-drafted Charlotte Hornet, Malik Monk, will be out for the summer due to an ankle injury sustained during the draft workout process. The Hornets were hoping to see how he does with the team as shooting guard, but that will have to wait until his injury has healed. The outlook is that he will have to wait 2-4 weeks while rehabilitating his ankle. 
While the Hornets will miss out on practicing with him as a team, Monk will still be able to watch and learn how the team functions. The 2-4 weeks that he will be out suggests that it was most likely a minor or moderate ankle sprain – a Grade 1 or 2 Sprain. The time spent on healing and treatment will reduce the chance of re-injury or worsening symptoms.
About Ankle Sprains
An ankle sprain occurs when the ankle is turned beyond its limits, causing excessive stretching and tearing of a ligament. Most sprains occur on the ligament along the outside of the ankle, but they can also happen on the inside as well.
In the case of mild sprains (Grade 1), the ligament can be overstretched and have small tears, but for severe sprains (Grade 3), it can tear completely. All sprains will cause tenderness and swelling, but the severity of symptoms will depend on the degree of the sprain. Symptoms will also last longer and will require more treatment and rehabilitation with higher grade levels.
Immediately after a mild sprain, it’s best to use the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) to alleviate pain and swelling. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are helpful in reducing symptoms as well.
For a Grade 2 or 3 sprain, which involves more pain and instability, the ankle will need immobilization with a cast or brace for about 2 or 3 weeks. Patients will probably need crutches to keep weight off of the injured ankle. Additionally, as the ankle heals, it will benefit from physical therapy to help restore full function.
Our Podiatrist can help!
We won’t know exactly when Monk will be back in play, but we do know that rest is best for sprains. If you suffer an ankle injury, get properly diagnosed by our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Brad Toll at Crofton Podiatry. After a physical examination, as well as in-office imaging (if necessary), he will grade the sprain in order to choose the best treatment for you. You can make an appointment by calling (410) 721-4505. Our team is ready to assist you and your family at our Crofton, MD office, which also serves the surrounding Gambrills, Odenton, and Bowie areas.