Matt Schaub Sprains His Ankle During Preseason

I like to see heart...I really do. But, when your job is not on the line, and you have a history of injury...is a risky scramble the right thing to do in a PRESEASON game?

 Well, that's exactly what happened last night in Reliant Stadium when the Texans played Brett Favre and the Minnesota Vikings.  I'll admit, I don't usually go to preseason games, but since both starting teams and quarterbacks were going to play at least the first half, the fact that it was Monday Night Football, and I've been pretty starved for football, I'd give it a chance.

Fortunately, it seems that Schaub's ankle sprain is not serious.  After scrambling to the sideline (nice play, although I don't agree with it) he limped slightly going back to the huddle.  After throwing a touchdown pass later in the drive, he really was limping as he was leaving the field.  Halftime came and went and Schaub did not return to the game.

Any twisted ankle can damage the three ligaments on the outside.  They are there to support the ankle.  The ligaments can either be stretched or torn when this happens.  Studies have shown that immobilization provides the best environment for the ankle sprain to heal.  For mild sprains, however, good quality elastic ankle support usually suffices.

As with any acute injury, a great way to manage the swelling and pain is through the RICE principle:  Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.  This especially holds true for ankle sprains, since they can swell pretty quickly.  Don't write off a sprained ankle as something that is minor...it is usually the annoying "minor" issues that linger.

I hope Schaub shows the same heart when he plays in the regular season...but he better stay healthy!!