Ankle Sprains

Twisting your foot the wrong way or stepping on an uneven surface can lead to a painful and frustrating injury. One of the most frequent results of these accidents is a sprained ankle. The podiatrists at Podiatry & Sports Medicine Associates P.C. in Park City and Chicago, Illinois, understand what causes ankle sprains, how to recognize the signs, and how to treat them. If you sprain your ankle, schedule an evaluation immediately by calling the office nearest you or booking an appointment online.

What are ankle sprains?

An ankle sprain is a common injury that occurs when you stretch or tear your ligaments — strong bands of tissue that connect your bones. Most ankle sprains happen when the foot twists, rolls, or turns beyond its normal range of motion, usually during physical activity or when walking on an uneven surface. 

The most commonly injured ligaments are on the ankle’s outer (lateral) side. Depending on the severity of the injury, ankle sprains are categorized as grade 1 (mild), grade 2 (moderate), or grade 3 (severe).

What are the symptoms of an ankle sprain?

Symptoms of an ankle sprain can vary depending on the severity of the injury, but they typically include:

• Pain, especially when bearing weight
• Swelling around the ankle joint
• Bruising or discoloration
• Limited range of motion
• Tenderness to touch
• Instability or weakness in the ankle 

In more severe cases, individuals might also hear a “pop” at the time of the injury.

How do ankle sprains compare to breaks or fractures?

Although ankle sprains and fractures can be painful and involve swelling and bruising, they’re very different injuries. A sprain affects the ligaments, while a fracture involves a bone break. 

One key difference is that fractures often cause more intense, localized pain and make it nearly impossible to bear weight on the affected foot. Your podiatrist typically performs an X-ray or imaging test to distinguish between the two. 

Unlike sprains, fractures may require immobilization with a cast or surgery, depending on the severity.

How are ankle sprains treated?

Treatment for an ankle sprain varies but generally follows the R.I.C.E. method (rest, ice, compression, and elevation). You can often manage a mild sprain at home with this method, along with over-the-counter pain relievers. 

For more moderate or severe sprains, your podiatrist may require physical therapy to rebuild strength and flexibility. They may also recommend supportive devices like braces or crutches to limit movement during healing. In rare cases, you may need surgery to repair torn ligaments, especially if the injury doesn’t heal properly or causes chronic ankle instability.

If you have an injured ankle, book an evaluation at Podiatry & Sports Medicine Associates P.C. for an accurate diagnosis. Call or book online now.