A common injury with a wide range of severity.
Ankle sprains happen when the foot is forced to invert or turn inward, straining or tearing the ligaments on the outer side of the ankle, most often the anterior talofibular and calcaneofibular ligaments. Injury to the inner side of the ankle is much less common.
Sprains are graded by severity: a Grade I sprain is a minor stretch or tear, a Grade II is a partial tear, and a Grade III is a complete tear. A sprain typically presents with pain on the outer side of the ankle, swelling, and a feeling of instability. A stress X-ray can help rule out a fracture when the injury is severe.
Acute sprains are managed first with rest, compression, elevation, bracing, and ice. Most people recover well with early rehabilitation. Surgery to reconstruct the ligaments is only considered after repeated, recurring sprains.
Restoring motion, strength, and balance, in that order.
Treatment for an ankle sprain progresses through restoring pain-free range of motion, rebuilding strength around the joint, and retraining balance and proprioception so the ankle can trust itself again on uneven ground. Skipping the balance-retraining phase is the single biggest reason ankle sprains become chronic instability.
No referral needed. Most insurances accepted. In most cases, you can be seen within the same week.
Schedule Your Appointment
No referral needed. Most insurances accepted. Same-week appointments available.
Your first visit is a thorough evaluation: come in, tell us everything, and leave with a plan.
You’re all set.
We’ll reach out within one business day to confirm your appointment. If you need to speak with us sooner, call us directly.