- Ankle sprains are caused by stretching or tearing the ligaments, typically resulting from an accidental twist or rolling of the foot during physical activity.
- Symptoms vary by severity, ranging from mild microscopic tears with slight pain to complete ligament ruptures that prevent any weight-bearing on the foot.
- Recovery involves a combination of rest, ice, and physical therapy, though severe cases may require immobilization with a cast or surgical reconstruction.
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments in your ankle are stretched or torn, often leading to immediate discomfort. Common symptoms include sharp pain, swelling, tenderness, and difficulty putting weight on your foot.
This injury typically happens after an accidental twist or "misstep" that causes the foot to roll outward. It is frequently seen in people wearing high heels or those participating in high-impact activities like running.
An orthopedic specialist usually manages the treatment process to ensure the joint heals correctly and regains stability. Recovery plans often involve resting with the limb elevated, applying ice, and using supportive devices or surgery for severe cases.
Symptoms of a sprained ankle
The primary symptoms of an ankle sprain include:
-
Intense ankle pain that may gradually subside over time.
-
Difficulty walking or putting weight on the affected foot.
-
Swelling concentrated on the outside of the foot.
-
Bruising that may appear on the skin up to 48 hours after the injury.
-
Tenderness when touching the outer side of the ankle and foot.
-
A slight feeling of warmth or heat in the injured area.
In most instances, a person can immediately tell they have twisted their ankle while walking or running.
How a diagnosis is confirmed
An orthopedic specialist diagnoses an ankle sprain by evaluating your symptoms and performing a physical examination. Based on the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, imaging tests like X-rays may be ordered to rule out a fracture, while MRIs or ultrasounds are used to assess the specific extent of ligament or cartilage damage.
Possible causes
The most frequent causes of a sprained ankle include:
-
Physical activities such as running, soccer, basketball, track and field, or martial arts.
-
"Misstepping" or landing awkwardly on an uneven surface.
-
Having flat feet (fallen arches).
-
Wearing high heels, oversized shoes, or footwear that does not provide proper support for your gait.
Ankle sprains are also common in individuals just starting a new exercise routine, often due to a lack of experience or improper technique.
Grades of ankle sprain
Ankle sprains are categorized into three distinct grades based on severity:
Your orthopedist will recommend a specific treatment plan based on the severity of the sprain.
How treatment is performed
Treatment for a sprained ankle should be guided by an orthopedic professional based on how severe the injury is and how long symptoms have lasted. The primary treatment methods include:
1. Cold compresses
Most sprains are mild, involving only minor stretching of the ligament, and symptoms usually resolve within five days. In these cases, your doctor may suggest applying cold compresses to the ankle while resting with your feet elevated.
2. Physical therapy
If the sprain involves a partial or total ligament tear, physical therapy may be required. According to the American Physical Therapy Association, this treatment involves the use of specialized equipment to reduce inflammation, along with targeted stretching and progressive strengthening exercises to restore joint stability and prevent future injuries. They may also recommend orthotic insoles to correct your gait or support your arches.
3. Immobilization
Some injuries require the foot to be immobilized with a splint or cast for several days. During this time, you may need to use crutches to avoid putting weight on the ankle. A therapist might also apply kinesiology tape to stabilize the joint and prevent the foot from rolling outward.
4. Medications for sprains
An orthopedist may prescribe or recommend medications to help manage pain and reduce swelling. This often includes the use of anti-inflammatory topicals, such as diclofenac gel.
5. Surgery
In the most severe cases, a doctor may perform surgery to reconstruct a completely ruptured ligament and restore joint function.
Recovery time
The time it takes to recover from an ankle sprain depends entirely on the grade of the injury. A mild sprain typically feels better within a few days, whereas a severe, high-grade tear may require several months of rehabilitation to heal fully