What Is an Ankle Sprain?
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched or torn, typically due to a sudden twisting or rolling injury. Ankle sprains are one of the most common orthopedic injuries and can affect people of all ages and activity levels.
Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that help stabilize the ankle joint. When the ankle rolls inward or outward beyond its normal range of motion, these ligaments can become injured, leading to pain, swelling, and instability.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained foot and ankle specialists provide personalized care to help patients recover safely, restore mobility, and reduce the risk of future ankle injuries.
Symptoms of an Ankle Sprain
- Pain around the ankle joint
- Swelling and bruising
- Tenderness to touch
- Difficulty walking or bearing weight
- Instability or weakness in the ankle
- Reduced range of motion
- A popping sensation at the time of injury
Causes & Risk Factors
Ankle sprains most commonly occur when the foot twists or rolls unexpectedly.
- Sports-related injuries
- Falls or missteps
- Walking or running on uneven surfaces
- Improper footwear
- Previous ankle injuries
- Poor balance or muscle weakness
- High-impact physical activities
Diagnosis
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, diagnosis begins with a thorough evaluation of the ankle and surrounding structures.
- Physical examination of the ankle joint
- Assessment of swelling, tenderness, and stability
- Evaluation of range of motion and weight-bearing ability
- X-rays to rule out fractures
- MRI imaging for more severe ligament injuries when needed
Proper diagnosis helps determine the severity of the sprain and guides the most effective treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Ankle Sprains
Non-Surgical Treatment
Most ankle sprains can be treated without surgery. Non-surgical treatment options may include:
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE)
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Bracing or temporary immobilization
- Physical therapy and strengthening exercises
- Balance and stability training
- Gradual return to activity
Surgical Treatment
Surgery is less commonly required but may be recommended for severe ligament tears, chronic ankle instability, or injuries that do not improve with conservative treatment. Surgical options focus on repairing or reconstructing damaged ligaments to restore ankle stability and function.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery time depends on the severity of the sprain and the treatment approach used.
- Mild sprains may improve within a few weeks
- Moderate injuries may require several weeks of rehabilitation
- Severe sprains may take several months for full recovery
- Physical therapy often helps improve strength, balance, and flexibility
Following your provider’s recovery plan carefully can help reduce the risk of reinjury and chronic ankle instability.
Why Choose Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists?
Local Care, Close to Home
We proudly serve patients throughout Delaware and nearby communities, including Wilmington, Newark, Middletown, Stanton, North Wilmington, and Chadds Ford. Our foot and ankle specialists provide comprehensive orthopedic care close to home.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained physicians provide advanced diagnosis and treatment for foot and ankle injuries, helping patients recover safely and return to their normal activities.
- Experienced foot and ankle specialists
- Comprehensive non-surgical and surgical treatment options
- Advanced imaging and injury evaluation
- Personalized rehabilitation and recovery plans
- Convenient locations throughout Delaware and nearby Pennsylvania
Schedule an Appointment
Schedule an appointment with Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists today to receive expert diagnosis and treatment for an ankle sprain.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I sprained my ankle?
Common signs include pain, swelling, bruising, instability, and difficulty walking after twisting or rolling the ankle.
Can ankle sprains heal on their own?
Mild sprains often improve with rest and conservative care, but more severe injuries should be evaluated to prevent long-term instability.
How long does an ankle sprain take to heal?
Recovery varies depending on severity. Mild sprains may heal within weeks, while severe injuries can take several months.
Will I need physical therapy after an ankle sprain?
Many patients benefit from physical therapy to restore strength, balance, flexibility, and stability during recovery.
When should I see a specialist?
If ankle pain, swelling, instability, or difficulty walking persists after an injury, it is important to seek orthopedic evaluation.