Ankle Sprains

An ankle sprain is an injury to one or more of the ligaments that stabilize the ankle. Sprains vary in severity and can range from a partial tearing of the ligament to a complete rupture.

Sprains can be caused by a twisting force to the lower leg or foot. The lateral ligaments on the outside of the ankle are injured most frequently. Ankle sprains are fairly common and occur among people of all ages. Sprains range from mild to severe, depending upon how much damage there is to the ligaments.

Most sprains are minor injuries that heal with home treatments like rest and applying ice. However, if your ankle is very swollen and painful to walk on — or if you are having trouble putting weight on your ankle at all, be sure to come in to see us.

It’s important to receive the proper treatment as a severe sprain not treated properly can weaken your ankle—making it more likely that you will injure it again. Repeated ankle sprains can lead to long-term problems, including chronic ankle pain and arthritis.