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Ankle Pain, Instability & Tendon Disorders

Ankle Sprains

Causes, symptoms, and treatment for ankle sprains, with care at 15 clinics across Middle Tennessee.

Part of Ankle Pain, Instability & Tendon Disorders

Understanding ankle sprains and your options.

An ankle sprain is an injury to the ligaments, the strong bands that hold the ankle bones together. Most sprains happen on the outer side. A high ankle sprain affects the ligaments just above the joint, between the two leg bones.

Sprains happen when you twist or roll the foot, often in sports or on uneven ground. Proper care early helps the ligaments heal and lowers the chance of another sprain.

Also called: Lateral and High / Syndesmotic

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788
Ankle Sprains care

Symptoms

Signs of ankle sprains.

If you notice these signs, an exam can give you clear answers.

  • 01

    Pain and swelling around the ankle after a twist

  • 02

    Bruising on the side or top of the foot

  • 03

    Trouble putting full weight on the foot

  • 04

    Pain above the ankle when the foot turns outward

Why it happens

What can cause ankle sprains.

  • 01

    Rolling the foot on a curb or uneven ground

  • 02

    Landing awkwardly after a jump

  • 03

    A twisting force while the foot is planted

  • 04

    Weak ankles or a past sprain

Care groupAnkle Pain, Instability & Tendon Disorders

Diagnosis and care

How we treat ankle sprains.

Step 1 · Diagnosis

We check where it hurts, how much swelling there is, and how stable the ankle feels. X-rays help rule out a broken bone. A high ankle sprain may need special stress views or an MRI to see the ligaments above the joint.

Step 2 · Treatment

Early care includes rest, ice, gentle compression, and keeping the foot raised. We may use a brace or boot to protect the ankle, and crutches if walking hurts. Once pain settles, physical therapy restores motion, strength, and balance. High ankle sprains often need a longer time of protection.

Surgery is not needed for most sprains. It may be considered for a high ankle sprain that makes the leg bones spread apart, or when the ankle stays loose after care.

Recovery

What to expect over time.

A mild sprain may feel better in two to six weeks. Moderate or high ankle sprains can take two to three months or more.

When to book

Do not wait it out.

See a podiatrist if you cannot walk on the foot, the ankle looks out of shape, or swelling and bruising are large. Also come in if pain is not improving after a few days.

Call 615-220-8788

Related care

More in Ankle Pain, Instability & Tendon Disorders.

FAQ

Your questions answered.

How do I know if it is a sprain or a break?

Both can cause swelling and pain, so it is hard to tell at home. An X-ray gives a clear answer.

Why does a high ankle sprain take longer to heal?

The ligaments above the ankle handle a lot of stress with every step. They need more time to settle.

Get help with ankle sprains.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788

Where we treat it

Ankle Sprains care at 15 clinics.

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