Ankle Sprain
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
An ankle sprain is an injury to the tough bands of tissue (ligaments) that connect the bones in your ankle. It happens when the ankle twists or rolls beyond its normal range, stretching or tearing the ligaments. This causes pain, swelling, and bruising.
Key facts
- Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries to the ankle.
- Most ankle sprains heal with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) and do not require surgery.
- Proper rehabilitation is important to prevent future sprains and chronic ankle problems.
Yes, ankle sprains are very common. They happen to millions of people every year worldwide.
Ankle sprains can affect anyone, but they are especially common in athletes, people who play sports that involve jumping or running, and people who walk on uneven surfaces.
Symptoms
- You cannot put any weight on the ankle at all and it is extremely painful.
- You hear a popping sound at the time of injury and then cannot move the ankle.
- The ankle looks deformed or the bone seems out of place.
- You have severe swelling that does not go down with elevation.
- Your foot feels numb, cold, or turns pale or blue.
- ⚠You can only put a little weight on the ankle and pain is getting worse.
- ⚠The swelling increases over the first 24 hours despite rest and ice.
- ⚠You have a fever along with ankle pain and swelling (possible infection).
- ⚠You have a history of blood clots and develop sudden calf swelling or pain.
Common symptoms
- Pain when putting weight on the injured ankle
- Swelling around the ankle
- Bruising (black and blue marks) on the ankle or foot
- Tenderness when touching the ankle
- Stiffness or difficulty moving the ankle
Symptoms in children
- Children may not be able to describe the pain clearly, so look for limping or refusing to walk.
- Swelling and bruising may appear quickly.
- Children may be more active and less likely to rest the ankle, so watch for worsening symptoms.
Symptoms in older adults
- Older adults may have more swelling and bruising because of thinner skin and weaker blood vessels.
- Pain may be harder to manage due to other health conditions.
- Sprains can take longer to heal and may increase the risk of falls.
Causes
Main causes
- Twisting or rolling the ankle while walking, running, or landing from a jump.
- Stepping on an uneven surface, like a hole or a loose stone.
- Sudden change in direction while the foot stays planted (common in sports like basketball or football).
Risk factors
- Playing sports that involve jumping, running, or quick turns.
- Having a previous ankle sprain, which weakens the ligaments.
- Wearing shoes that do not support the ankle, like high heels or worn-out trainers.
- Walking or running on irregular surfaces.
- Having weak ankle muscles or poor balance.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- You have any of the emergency symptoms listed above.
- Your ankle is so swollen you cannot see the outline of the ankle bones.
- You have severe pain that does not improve with rest and ice.
Book a routine appointment if:
- Your symptoms do not start to improve after 48 hours of home treatment.
- You still have pain and swelling after 1–2 weeks.
- You have had multiple ankle sprains in the past year.
Diagnosis
A doctor will ask how the injury happened and examine your ankle. They will check for swelling, bruising, tenderness, and range of motion. They may also gently move your ankle to see which ligaments are injured.
Tests that may be done
- X-rays are often used to check for broken bones if the pain is severe or you cannot put any weight on the ankle.
- An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) may be ordered if the injury does not heal or if a more severe ligament tear is suspected, but this is not routine.
What to expect at your appointment
The doctor will tell you the grade of your sprain (mild, moderate, or severe) based on how much the ligament is stretched or torn. They will then advise you on treatment, which usually starts with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). They may also give you a brace or crutches if needed.
Treatment
Treatment for an ankle sprain depends on the severity. Most sprains heal with self-care and physical therapy. The goal is to reduce pain and swelling, protect the ligament, and restore strength and range of motion.
Self-care at home
- Rest your ankle for 48 hours – avoid putting weight on it as much as possible.
- Ice your ankle for 15–20 minutes every 2–3 hours (use a towel between the ice and skin).
- Compress the ankle with an elastic bandage or wrap to limit swelling. Make sure it is not too tight.
- Elevate your ankle above heart level as much as possible, especially in the first 24–48 hours.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol (acetaminophen) or ibuprofen – always follow the recommended dose (do not mention specific brand names).
Medical treatments
A doctor may recommend a brace, splint, or walking boot to support the ankle during healing. Physiotherapy is often recommended to improve strength, balance, and range of motion. In some cases, steroid injections (cortisone) may be used to reduce severe inflammation, but this is rare for ankle sprains.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is rarely needed for ankle sprains. It may be considered if there is a complete tear of a ligament that does not heal, if the ankle remains unstable after rehab, or if there is also a fracture or cartilage damage.
Living with this condition
In the first few days, you will need to take it easy. Use crutches if you cannot bear weight. After swelling goes down, you can gradually increase activity as pain allows. Most people can return to daily activities within 1–4 weeks for mild sprains.
Lifestyle tips
- Wear supportive shoes, especially when walking on uneven ground.
- Avoid high-impact sports or jumping until your ankle feels strong again.
- Continue with prescribed exercises to strengthen the ankle and improve balance.
- Consider using an ankle brace or taping when returning to sports.
Diet and exercise
Eating a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins C and D, and calcium may help tissue healing. Gentle exercises like ankle pumps, alphabet writing with your toes, and range-of-motion movements can start as soon as the pain allows. Always follow your doctor or physiotherapist's advice.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
An ankle sprain can be frustrating, especially if it keeps you from activities you enjoy. It is normal to feel upset or anxious. Focus on what you can do, such as upper body exercises, and talk to friends or family about your feelings. If you feel very low, consider speaking with a healthcare provider.
Prevention
You can lower your risk of ankle sprains by doing exercises that strengthen the muscles around the ankle, improving your balance, and wearing proper footwear. Also, be cautious on uneven surfaces and warm up before exercise.
Complications
If left untreated
- Chronic ankle instability – the ankle may keep giving way, making it more likely to sprain again.
- Long-term pain and swelling.
- Arthritis in the ankle joint later in life from repeated injury.
- Nerve damage (rare) causing numbness or weakness.
Long-term outlook
The outlook for most ankle sprains is very good. With proper care and rehabilitation, most people recover fully within a few weeks to a few months. Even severe sprains can heal well without long-term problems. Following a guided rehab program is the best way to ensure a full recovery and reduce the chance of future sprains.
Find support
International organisations
- World Health Organization (WHO) – physical activity and injury prevention ↗
- International Ankle Consortium ↗
Local organisations
- NHS – Ankle sprain information ↗ · United Kingdom
- Versus Arthritis – Ankle sprain advice ↗ · United Kingdom
Helplines
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Related conditions
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 16, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.
Guidance may differ by country or region. Confirm local recommendations with a qualified healthcare provider.