Sprained Ankle

What are ankle sprains?

An ankle sprain occurs when you overextend the ligaments –– tough bands of fibrous tissue –– that surround your ankle joint. When your ligaments are pushed past their boundaries, it results in swelling, sensitivity, and pain.

Sprained ankles vary in severity. Some respond to conservative treatments like ice and rest; others require surgical intervention and weeks or even months of physical therapy.

What are the symptoms of a sprained ankle?

Symptoms of a sprained ankle include:

• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Bruising
• Pain
• Skin discoloration
• Stiffness

If you experience a serious sprain, you might also have difficulty standing up or putting weight on your affected ankle.

Who is at risk of experiencing a sprained ankle?

Anyone can experience an ankle sprain, but several factors can increase your risk. For example, you’re more likely to suffer a sprain if you play sports that require frequent pivots or changes in direction, such as soccer or basketball. 

You’re also more likely to experience a sprain if you wear inappropriate footwear or walk on uneven surfaces.

How do I know if my ankle is really sprained?

To diagnose an ankle sprain, your Advanced Regional Center for Orthopedics & Podiatry provider reviews your health history and asks about your symptoms. Then, they physically examine your ankle, testing its strength, flexibility, and range of motion.

If your provider suspects a serious injury to your ligaments or a bone fracture, they also order diagnostic imaging, like X-rays, an MRI, or a CT scan. These procedures capture high-quality images of the hard and soft tissues beneath your skin.

How are sprained ankles treated?

Treatment of an ankle sprain depends on several factors, including the severity of the sprain and its effect on your daily life. Whenever possible, the team at Advanced Regional Center for Orthopedics & Podiatry recommends integrative treatments, including:

• Wrapping your ankle with a brace or bandage
• Using crutches
• Elevating your foot to reduce swelling
• Icing your ankle
• Taking over-the-counter pain medication

If your sprain is severe or there are signs of ankle instability, the team might recommend reconstructive surgery. Reconstructive surgery uses specialized tools to repair your ligaments and encourage your body’s healing process.