Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries treated in orthopaedics. Whether you’ve twisted your foot on uneven surfaces or suffered a sports injury, this article explains what happens when an ankle sprain occurs and what to do next.
At Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center in Greater Columbus, we specialize in treating all levels of ankle sprains. Contact our expert team today to begin healing your injured ankle with proper treatment.
Visiting an orthopedic surgeon doesn’t mean that surgery is necessary. Our orthopedic doctors always prefer to use non-surgical procedures to treat injuries.
“Always treated like a person, not a number. Treated with courtesy and respect. I drive 3hrs to be there. I arrive early and never have to wait long. Employees are very pleasant and knowledgable. The doctors are well educated and concerned about your problems, treatment, and recovery. Would recommend Ortho Foot & Ankle to anyone. There’s no better in my opinion.” — Rodney B.
A sprained ankle happens when the ankle ligaments are stretched beyond their normal range or torn. These tough bands support the ankle bones on the inside and outside of the joint. Most often, the foot rolls inward, affecting the ligaments on the outside of the ankle. This is known as an inversion injury.
It is also possible to stretch the ligaments on the inside of the ankle by rolling the foot outwards, known as an eversion injury.
There is also the high ankle sprain, which affects the ligaments between the lower leg bones. These are less common and are typically caused by more forceful impacts, taking longer to heal.
This common injury can range from minor to severe. Even a mild ankle sprain requires careful management to prevent complications, such as chronic ankle instability, especially in cases of repeated ankle sprains.
Ankle sprains are typically classified into three grades based on the severity of the injury:
When a sprained ankle occurs, you may notice:
In more severe ankle sprains, the ankle may visibly deform or swell significantly, and a torn ligament may completely limit mobility.
A sprained ankle can be triggered by many routine and athletic activities. Common causes include:
People with weak ankle strength or poor balance are at higher risk. Preventing future ankle sprains means taking proactive steps, including proper warm-up and strength conditioning.
A proper physical exam is the first step. A healthcare provider will examine the affected foot, checking for tenderness, swelling, and stability. The severity of the injury often determines the course of treatment.
If a severe sprain is suspected, imaging tests may be required:
Effective treatment for a sprained ankle depends on the severity of the injury, but timely care and proper rehabilitation are key to a full recovery and preventing future ankle sprains.
In the first 48–72 hours after an acute ankle sprain, you need to focus on minimizing inflammation. The following method can be used initially:
For pain and swelling, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can be helpful. However, persistent pain or severe injuries need medical attention from orthopaedic surgeons.
The proper treatment for an ankle sprain depends on the severity. Medical treatment for a sprained ankle may include the following:
Rehabilitation is crucial. Our practice strongly recommends physical therapy, which is proven to speed recovery and prevent chronic ankle instability.
A licensed physical therapist will guide you through:
This approach ensures most sprains heal properly and prevents future ankle sprains.
You can significantly prevent ankle sprains with proactive care:
Early intervention, consistent therapy, and a tailored recovery plan are essential for long-term ankle stability.
If you’re dealing with a sprained ankle, proper care from the start is essential to prevent long-term issues like chronic ankle instability or repeated ankle sprains. The team at Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center in Greater Columbus is here to help you heal, regain function, and get back to the activities you love.
Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation. Our expert orthopaedic surgeons and physical therapists are ready to guide your recovery and provide the care you need to stay strong, active, and pain-free.
Medically reviewed by Sarah Abshier, DPM, CWS
