What is it?
The most commonly injured ligaments are on the outside of the ankle. Sprains are graded from I (stretched) to III (completely torn). A 'high ankle sprain' involves the ligaments between the two leg bones and typically takes longer to recover.
What causes it?
- Rolling the ankle on uneven ground or a curb
- Landing on another player's foot
- Sports with cutting and jumping
- A previous sprain that left the ligaments weak
What does it feel like?
- Pain and swelling on the outside of the ankle
- Bruising that spreads toward the foot
- Difficulty bearing weight
- A feeling that the ankle is loose or gives way
How is it diagnosed?
An exam of ligament stability and specific tender points. X-rays rule out fractures — including fractures of the fifth metatarsal, which are commonly missed. Ultrasound or MRI is used when a significant ligament, tendon, or cartilage injury is suspected.
When should you see a podiatrist?
- You cannot put weight on the foot
- Pain directly over bone
- Swelling that is not improving after a few days
- The ankle keeps giving way
- Pain persisting beyond four to six weeks
Nonsurgical treatment
- Early protection
- A brace or walking boot, depending on severity.
- Swelling control
- Ice, compression, and elevation in the first days.
- Early, guided movement
- Returning to walking as soon as it is safe speeds recovery.
- Balance and strength training
- The most important step in preventing repeat sprains.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is rarely needed for a first sprain. It is considered when the ankle remains unstable after a full rehabilitation program, or when there is an associated fracture, tendon tear, or cartilage injury.
Ligament repair (such as a modified Broström procedure) restores stability, often combined with arthroscopy to treat cartilage or scar tissue inside the joint.
Related procedures
What is recovery like?
Mild sprains often recover in two to four weeks; severe sprains can take two to three months. Balance training should continue after the pain resolves.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my ankle sprain is serious?
Inability to bear weight, pain directly over bone, major swelling, or an ankle that keeps giving way are all reasons to be examined. A fracture or complete ligament tear needs different treatment than a mild sprain.
Should I use crutches?
Only for as long as you cannot walk safely. For most sprains, early protected walking is better than prolonged rest.
Why does my ankle keep rolling?
Stretched ligaments and reduced balance after a sprain make repeat injury more likely. This is chronic ankle instability and it is treatable.