When A Sprained Ankle Won’t Heal: Is It Time To See A Doctor?

Got An Ankle Sprain? You’re Not Alone

Ankle sprains can happen at any unguarded moment. A simple misstep or an awkward collision on the sports field can cause the injury. Close to 1 million patients visit the hospital for a sprained ankle each year. And that’s just the people who decide to visit a doctor. Luckily, about 80% of sprains can heal with simple treatment. When a sprained ankle fails to heal, a specialist needs to get involved.

Breaking down the ankle

The ankle consists of bones and ligaments that allow the joint to rotate and bear weight. The tibia and fibula connect to the talus bone, which connects to the foot. Ankles are synovial joints that help the foot move up and down. Several ligaments work together to hold these bones in place. Fibular ligaments support the outside of the ankle while 4 deltoid ligaments support the inside. Syndesmosis ligaments support the upper ankle. Should one of these ligaments become damaged, an ankle sprain occurs.

How does an ankle sprain happen?

A roll, bend, twist, or turn that goes beyond the ankle’s natural movement causes ankle sprains. One or more ligaments can stretch or tear. Ankle sprains cause swelling, bruising, and intense pain and vary in intensity. A grade 1 injury is a hyperextension of 1 or more ligaments. Grade 2 and 3 are a partial tear or full ligament tear.

Treating that precious ankle

Standard treatment starts with the RICE method. RICE is a combination of rest, ice packs, compression, and elevation. Each step plays a part in reducing pain and swelling so the ligament can heal. Some cases may require bandaging or an air boot. Most ankle sprains will heal naturally in a few weeks with consistent treatment.

When the sprain does not heal

In some cases, the ankle does not respond to rest. If the swelling does not reduce in a day or two, the injury could be more severe. A sprain left untreated can lead to chronic ankle instability, which increases the chances of a second sprain. Unstable ankles won’t heal well, and simple tasks like walking become difficult. At this point, a specialist should be consulted.

Time to call ortho

People with prolonged ankle sprains should seek specialized help. Orthopedic surgeons specialize in all types of injuries and many have a special focus on the foot and ankle. A typical evaluation may include an x-ray or MRI to understand the severity of the injury. Surgery may not be the answer; typically, a physician will prescribe physical therapy first. Learning some therapeutic movements may help restore strength and motion. In more severe cases, the surgeon may recommend ankle ligament reconstruction surgery. Surgery is usually an outpatient procedure that reinforces the ligaments. Reconstructive surgery, along with physical therapy, could restore proper ankle function.

Get serious about your ankle sprain today

Most ankle sprains heal without significant medical intervention. However, prolonged pain should be taken seriously. An ankle sprain that does not improve could be a sign of a more severe injury. Ankles are a vital part of body movement and essential for quality of life. Consult with an orthopedic physician to get the right care to prevent further damage.