What is a Sprained Ankle?

Sprained ankles are a common injury, yet they often raise many questions. Whether you’re an athlete, a caregiver or someone dealing with a sprained ankle, doctors at  Northern Nevada Urgent Care can help quickly diagnose and treat injured ankles.

How Do I Know If I Sprained My Ankle?

A sprained ankle occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle actually stretch or tear. Injuries typically happen when you twist or roll the ankle in an awkward way. Symptoms vary in intensity depending on the severity of the sprain. It’s painful.

It’s important to listen to your body and seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen. The most common causes of sprained ankles are:

• Tripping or falling, twisting the ankle 
• Landing awkwardly after a jump or hop 
• Accidents during leisure activities
• Walking or running on uneven surfaces
• Direct impact, such as during soccer or basketball 

Recognizing the symptoms of a sprained ankle is the first step towards effective treatment. If you see any of these more serious side effects, it may be time to schedule an urgent care visit. 

• Pain during weight-bearing and walking
• Unrelenting swelling and bruising around the area 
• Limited range of motion from the joint 
• Painful to the touch and inflamed 

How severe is the ankle sprain? 

Sprained ankles are classified into three grades based on their intensity. 

Grade 1 sprains are mild with minimal damage to the ligaments. Symptoms include slight swelling and discomfort but the ankle remains stable. Recovery typically takes 1-2 weeks.

Grade 2 sprains are moderate with a partial tear of the ligament, resulting in noticeable swelling, bruising and moderate pain. The ankle may feel unstable during certain movements. Grade 2 sprains may require physical therapy and recovery can span 3-6 weeks

Grade 3 sprains are severe, involving a complete tear of the ligament. This leads to significant swelling, bruising and pain. The ankle is unstable and it’s often difficult to bear weight on the affected foot. You probably can’t wear shoes. Grade 3 sprains are painful and can take several months to fully heal.

Factors that can influence healing time for sprained ankles:

• Age and overall health and fitness
• The severity of the sprain and exact location on the ankle
• Adherence to treatment and rehabilitation therapies
• Habits like smoking and drinking excessive alcohol 

How to Treat a Sprained Ankle at Home

When you first sprain your ankle, immediate treatment can help reduce pain and swelling. The RICE method is a surefire approach to reducing swelling and pain.

RICE stands for:

• Rest. Limit activities and keep weight off your injured ankle.
• Ice. Apply an ice pack to the injured area for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours.
• Compression. Wrap a firm (not too tight) elastic bandage to reduce swelling.
• Elevation. Prop your ankle up higher than your heart to improve blood flow.

Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help manage pain and inflammation. A sprained ankle can usually be managed at home. However, there are certain signs that indicate a need for professional medical evaluation. Always consult with a healthcare provider before resuming normal activities. 

If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention for: 

• Severe pain or swelling
• Inability to bear weight on the affected ankle
• Deformity of the ankle joint
• Symptoms that do not improve with home treatment
• Pain or swelling that worsens over time
• Any other symptoms that cause concern

Once the initial pain and swelling have subsided, physical therapy and doctor-prescribed exercises can play a crucial role in recovery. They help to strengthen the ankle, improve balance and prevent future injuries. You’ll perform functional moves, stretches and strength exercises with a therapist to ensure you’re working safely and effectively.  

5 tips for preventing future ankle sprains  

Preventing future sprained ankles is just as important as treating the current one. Here are best practices to help you avoid future injuries:

• Warm up properly for 5-8 minutes before any physical activity.
• Wear supportive shoes that fit well and offer ankle stability.
• Practice balance and agility by standing on one leg at a time. 
• Maintain a healthy, lean weight to strongly support your frame.
• Consciously avoid uneven surfaces when running or walking.

Each person’s situation is unique. It’s important to understand your own body and its limits. And don’t push yourself too hard, too soon.

Make a reservation 

Visit Northern Nevada Urgent Care, where doctors can provide resources and treatment. Northern Nevada Urgent Care in Sparks and Reno are open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-7 p.m; open Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Call 911 immediately or go to the nearest emergency department if you’re experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath or other life-threatening symptoms.