Ankle Sprains

The ankle is supported by a network of ligaments that connect bones and help stabilize the joint during movement. When these ligaments are stretched beyond their normal range or torn, an ankle sprain occurs.

Although ankle sprains are common, they should not be ignored. Without proper treatment and rehabilitation, some patients develop chronic ankle instability, recurring sprains, and long-term mobility issues. At Fox Valley Orthopedics, we provide comprehensive care to help patients reduce pain, restore strength, and return to the activities they enjoy.

What Is an Ankle Sprain?

An ankle sprain is an injury to one or more of the ligaments that support the ankle joint. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bones and help keep joints stable during movement.

Most ankle sprains occur when the foot rolls inward unexpectedly, stretching or tearing the ligaments located on the outside of the ankle.

Depending on the severity of the injury, a sprain may involve:

• Mild stretching of the ligaments
• Partial ligament tears
• Complete ligament ruptures
• Damage to multiple ankle ligaments

The extent of ligament damage helps determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

What Types of Ankle Sprains Are There?

Ankle sprains are typically classified according to the ligaments involved and the severity of the injury.

Lateral Ankle Sprain

A lateral ankle sprain is the most common type of ankle sprain and occurs when the foot rolls inward, damaging the ligaments on the outside of the ankle.

Medial Ankle Sprain

A medial ankle sprain affects the ligaments on the inside of the ankle and is less common because these ligaments are stronger and more resistant to injury.

High Ankle Sprain

A high ankle sprain involves the ligaments that connect the tibia and fibula above the ankle joint. These injuries often occur during sports and typically require a longer recovery period.

Grade I Ankle Sprain

A Grade I sprain is considered mild and involves stretching of the ligament without significant instability.

Grade II Ankle Sprain

A Grade II sprain involves a partial ligament tear and may result in moderate pain, swelling, and reduced function.

Grade III Ankle Sprain

A Grade III sprain involves a complete ligament tear and often causes significant instability, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight.

What Causes Ankle Sprains?

Ankle sprains usually occur when the ankle moves beyond its normal range of motion.

Common causes include:

• Rolling or twisting the ankle
• Stepping on uneven surfaces
• Sports-related injuries
• Jumping and landing awkwardly
• Running or cutting movements
• Falls
• Sudden changes in direction
• Poor footwear
• Previous ankle injuries

Sports such as basketball, soccer, football, volleyball, tennis, and running frequently place athletes at higher risk for ankle sprains.

What Are the Symptoms of an Ankle Sprain?

Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the injury.

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Ankle pain
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Tenderness to the touch
• Difficulty walking
• Pain when bearing weight
• Limited range of motion
• Instability of the ankle
• A popping sensation at the time of injury
• Weakness around the joint

More severe sprains may make it difficult or impossible to walk immediately after the injury.

How Is an Ankle Sprain Diagnosed?

Diagnosing an ankle sprain begins with a comprehensive orthopedic evaluation.

Diagnostic evaluation may include:

• Review of symptoms and injury history
• Physical examination
• Assessment of ankle stability
• Evaluation of swelling and tenderness
• Range-of-motion testing
• X-rays to rule out fractures
• MRI imaging when ligament damage is suspected
• Ultrasound imaging in select cases

Diagnostic imaging helps determine the severity of the injury while identifying any associated fractures or cartilage damage.

How Is an Ankle Sprain Treated?

Treatment depends on the severity of the injury and the patient’s activity level and goals.

What Nonsurgical Treatments Are Available for Ankle Sprains?

Most ankle sprains can be successfully treated without surgery.

Nonsurgical treatment options may include:

• Rest and activity modification
• Ice therapy
• Compression
• Elevation
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Bracing
• Walking boots
• Physical therapy
• Balance and proprioception training
• Strengthening exercises

Rehabilitation is essential for restoring stability and preventing future ankle injuries.

When Is Surgery Recommended for Ankle Sprains?

Surgery may be recommended when:

• Significant ligament damage is present
• Chronic ankle instability develops
• Recurrent sprains occur
• Associated injuries require repair
• Conservative treatment fails to restore function

Surgical options may include:

• Ligament repair
• Ligament reconstruction
• Arthroscopic procedures
• Treatment of associated cartilage injuries

The specific treatment plan depends on the severity of the injury and the patient’s lifestyle and activity goals.

What Does Ankle Sprain Recovery Look Like?

Recovery depends on the severity of the sprain and the treatment approach selected.

Mild ankle sprains may improve within a few weeks, while more severe injuries can require several months of rehabilitation.

Recovery often includes:

• Progressive weight-bearing activities
• Physical therapy
• Strengthening exercises
• Balance training
• Sport-specific rehabilitation
• Gradual return to activity

Completing a full rehabilitation program is critical for reducing the risk of future ankle sprains and chronic instability.

What Complications Can Occur if an Ankle Sprain Is Left Untreated?

Without proper treatment, ankle sprains can lead to ongoing problems that affect mobility and performance.

Potential complications include:

• Chronic ankle instability
• Recurrent ankle sprains
• Persistent pain
• Joint stiffness
• Cartilage damage
• Weakness
• Reduced athletic performance
• Early arthritis of the ankle joint

Early evaluation and rehabilitation can help prevent these complications and improve long-term outcomes.

Get Expert Ankle Sprain Care at Fox Valley Orthopedics

An ankle sprain may seem like a minor injury, but without proper treatment, it can lead to chronic pain, instability, and repeated injuries. At Fox Valley Orthopedics, our experienced specialists provide comprehensive care for ankle sprains, including advanced diagnostics, rehabilitation programs, bracing solutions, and surgical treatment when necessary.

Whether your treatment involves physical therapy, activity modification, bracing, injury prevention training, or surgery, our team is committed to helping you regain comfort, mobility, and confidence. If you’re experiencing symptoms of an ankle sprain, schedule an appointment with Fox Valley Orthopedics today by calling (855) 386-7846 to discuss your treatment options and take the first step toward lasting recovery.