An ankle sprain is when the ligaments that support the ankle get overly stretched or torn. It can happen when you step in a hole, twist your ankle while walking or running, or put your weight down on your foot awkwardly.
When most ankle sprains happen, the ankle is flexed and inverted (the foot turned inward toward the opposite foot). Ankle sprains are common, making up 25% of all sports-related injuries.
With rest and proper treatment, most ankle sprains heal within 4–6 weeks. But some can take longer.
The signs of an ankle sprain depend on how serious it is. Common symptoms include:
Most ankle sprains happen when the ankle twists, or when the foot rolls onto its side. Most happen during athletic activities. But you don't have to be playing sports to injure an ankle — sprains can happen from taking an awkward step or tripping on the stairs.
To diagnose ankle sprains, doctors ask about the injury and do an exam. They'll check the bones and soft tissue of the ankle, watch the person's range of motion, and do strength tests.
Sometimes, the doctor may order an X-ray or other imaging study to see if there are other injuries, such as a broken bone.
Treatment for an ankle sprain usually includes:
Doctors may treat a more serious ankle sprain with a splint or temporary cast. Very rarely, a person might need surgery.
If you have an ankle sprain, you'll probably need to take some time off from sports and other strenuous physical activities. Make sure your sprained ankle is completely healed first.
You can go back when:
It's impossible to prevent all ankle sprains. But these tips can make another one less likely:
Not overdoing things is key when it comes to sprains. So follow your doctor's advice and don't push yourself or feel pressure to get back into sports or other activities too soon. Sprains usually heal well, but they need time to get fully better.
Reviewed by: Cassidy Foley Davelaar, DO
Date Reviewed: Nov 25, 2019