Condition Basics
What is an ankle sprain?
An ankle sprain is an injury that happens when you stretch or tear the ligaments in your ankle. Most sprains happen when you twist your ankle. Afterward, the ankle usually becomes swollen and painful.
Even though ankle sprains are common, they aren't always minor injuries. Some people with repeated or severe sprains can develop long-term joint pain and weakness. Treating a sprained ankle can help prevent ongoing ankle problems.
What are the symptoms?
With most ankle sprains, you feel pain right away. Often the ankle starts to swell and bruise, and it hurts to move it. If a sprain is more severe, you may have a lot of pain. You may not be able to walk or put weight on your foot.
How is it diagnosed?
Your doctor will ask how you hurt your ankle and if you've hurt your ankle before. You'll be asked to move your foot up and down and to try to walk. Then the doctor will carefully move your foot and ankle to see if the ligaments work and what causes pain.
How is an ankle sprain treated?
At first, you may be able to treat your sprained ankle with the RICE approach. RICE stands for R est, I ce, C ompression, and E levation. You may also need pain medicines and rehab exercises. In more serious cases, surgery may be needed.
What kind of a rehabilitation program should you follow?
Most people can start rehab right away. Your doctor will recommend specific exercises, depending on your level of pain. A combination of stretching, strength, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal totally and may prevent further injury.
