What it is
When the foot rolls inward, the ligaments on the outside of the ankle take the load. A mild sprain stretches them; a severe one tears them outright. Because people walk on sprains, many are never properly graded or rehabilitated.
That matters: an incompletely healed ligament leaves the ankle mechanically loose, which is why a first sprain is the strongest predictor of a second. Repeated sprains lead to chronic instability and, eventually, ankle arthritis.
Symptoms we look for
- Immediate pain and swelling after a twist
- Bruising along the outside of the ankle or foot
- Difficulty or reluctance to bear weight
- A sense that the ankle gives way on uneven ground
How we treat it
- Imaging to rule out fracture and grade the ligament injury
- Bracing or boot immobilization sized to the grade
- Structured physical therapy for strength and proprioception
- Injection therapy for persistent synovitis
- Ligament reconstruction for chronic instability
When to see a podiatrist
Get seen if you cannot bear weight, if bruising is significant, or if the ankle is still swollen after a week. Also come in if you have sprained the same ankle more than twice — that is instability, not bad luck.
Common questions
Do I need an X-ray for a sprain?
Often yes. Several fractures present exactly like sprains, and missing one costs months. We image when the exam suggests it.
How long until I can run again?
A mild sprain is typically two to three weeks; a severe ligament tear can be eight to twelve. Returning early is the most common cause of re-injury.