Ankle sprains are among the most common sports injuries, affecting millions of people annually. Your ankles support nearly all of your body weight, making them highly vulnerable to injury from twisting motions, sudden impacts, or improper foot positioning. Knowing the proper ankle sprain treatment can help you recover faster and prevent future injuries.
At Northwest Extremity Specialists, our Portland-area podiatrists provide expert diagnosis and treatment to ensure proper healing and prevent long-term complications.
What Is an Ankle Sprain?
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched or torn due to excessive force or movement beyond their normal range.
Sprains are classified into three grades based on severity:
- Grade 1: Mild sprain with minor ligament stretching and microscopic tears. Symptoms include mild swelling, tenderness, and discomfort.
- Grade 2: Partial ligament tear with moderate pain, swelling, and instability. The ankle may feel loose when moved.
- Grade 3: Complete ligament tear causing severe pain, swelling, bruising, and ankle instability.
For additional details on ankle sprain classifications, refer to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS).
What Causes Ankle Sprains?
Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments are stretched beyond their limits, often due to:
- Sports activities involving sudden stops, pivots, or jumping
- Falling, tripping, or landing improperly
- Running on uneven surfaces
- Wearing improper footwear with inadequate support
- A history of ankle injuries leading to weakened ligaments
Certain individuals may be genetically predisposed to weak ankles, increasing their risk of sprains.
Can I Treat an Ankle Sprain at Home?
While mild ankle sprains may appear manageable, we strongly recommend seeing a podiatrist for two reasons:
- Untreated sprains can heal improperly, leading to chronic instability and recurrent injuries.
- Ankle sprains may mask more serious injuries, such as fractures or tendon damage, requiring medical attention.
For more information on why professional evaluation is necessary, visit the National Library of Medicine.
How Are Ankle Sprains Treated?
Most ankle sprains can be treated with conservative methods, including:
1. RICE Therapy (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)
- Rest – Avoid putting weight on the injured ankle.
- Ice – Apply ice packs for 15–20 minutes every few hours to reduce swelling.
- Compression – Use an elastic bandage for stabilization and swelling control.
- Elevation – Keep the ankle raised above heart level to minimize inflammation.
2. Medications
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen) help reduce pain and swelling.
- In severe cases, prescription anti-inflammatory medications may be recommended.
3. Physical Therapy
- Strengthening and flexibility exercises restore range of motion.
- Therapy helps reduce the risk of future sprains.
4. Immobilization
- Grade 3 sprains may require a walking boot or short-leg cast for up to three weeks.
- Grade 2 sprains may benefit from a brace or stabilizing device.
For detailed guidance on ankle rehabilitation, visit the Cleveland Clinic.
Advanced Treatments for Severe Ankle Sprains
At Northwest Extremity Specialists, we offer:
- Shockwave therapy to stimulate tissue healing and reduce inflammation.
- Regenerative medicine treatments to promote faster recovery.
- Surgical intervention in rare cases where the ligaments fail to heal properly.
When to See a Podiatrist for an Ankle Sprain
Seek professional care if you experience:
- Severe pain, swelling, or bruising
- Difficulty walking or standing
- Persistent instability or recurrent sprains
- Ankle pain lasting more than a few days
Ignoring an ankle sprain can lead to chronic instability and long-term complications.
Contact a Portland-Area Podiatrist for Ankle Sprain Treatment
If you have injured your ankle, seeking early medical intervention can prevent further damage and speed up recovery.
Contact your nearest Northwest Extremity Specialists office today to schedule an expert ankle sprain evaluation and treatment plan.
