How do I know if my ankle sprain is severe?

People with a more severe ankle sprain — characterized by extreme bruising or swelling and an inability to bear weight on the foot without significant pain, or when there doesn't seem to be any improvement over the first several days after the injury — should seek medical attention, Drs.

How do you know the severity of a sprained ankle?

Which type of ankle sprain is considered severe?

Grade 1: Stretching or slight tearing of the ligament with mild tenderness, swelling and stiffness. The ankle feels stable and it is usually possible to walk with minimal pain. Grade 2: A more severe sprain, but incomplete tear with moderate pain, swelling and bruising.

What does a severe sprained ankle feel like?

Pain, especially when you bear weight on the affected foot. Tenderness when you touch the ankle. Swelling. Bruising.

How do you know if you have a Grade 3 ankle sprain?

Grade 3 sprain

You experience severe swelling and bruising. The joint probably isn't functional because it's too unstable, and movement creates intense pain. If you have a grade 3 sprain in the ankle, for example, walking usually isn't possible.

Ankle Sprain Evaluation with Paul Marquis PT

How do you tell if you tore a ligament in your ankle?

Does a Grade 2 ankle sprain need a boot?

Based upon this recent research, I recommend cast immobilization or a removable walking boot for seven to 10 days for all patients suffering a Grade II or III ankle sprain.

Should I go to ER for sprained ankle?

Go to urgent care if your pain level and swelling is significant and you have difficulty walking, to the point that you need assistance, due to the pain. Go to the emergency room if your foot is bruised, deformed, or you are unable to walk at all. You may have a fracture, broken bone or serious ligament damage.

When should you get a sprained ankle checked?

Can you walk on a fractured ankle?

Many people assume that if you can put weight on the ankle then it isn't broken, however, it is possible to walk on a broken ankle, particularly with a less severe fracture. If you're concerned your ankle may be broken, we recommend contacting your doctor, who can conduct an examination or order and xray if necessary.

What is a Level 2 ankle sprain?

A Grade 2 sprain is considered to be moderate and is characterized by some, but not all, of the ligament fibers being torn. The affected ankle and foot are often painful and moderately bruised or swollen, but the stability of the ankle joint is generally not affected.

When can I walk on a grade 3 sprain?

It depends on how your injured area, and body, is responding to the treatment. However, you can expect it to take about 12 weeks before you can slowly get back to your normal routine. In this period, your doctor may ask you to wear crutches or use a walking stick.

What are the stages of a sprained ankle?

"Healing takes place in 3 different phases: inflammatory phase, proliferative phase and maturation or remodeling phase." Ankle sprains can be particularly tricky depending on the degree of the sprain and the level of activity you're looking to return to.

Does a grade 3 ankle sprain require surgery?

A Grade 3 sprain can be associated with permanent instability. Surgery is rarely needed. A short leg cast or a cast-brace may be used for two weeks to three weeks. Rehabilitation is used to help to decrease pain and swelling and to prevent chronic ankle problems.

How long should you stay off a sprained ankle?

Grade 1 sprained ankle recovery time is anywhere from 2 weeks to a month, normally closer to the two-week mark with proper treatment. A grade 1 sprained ankle can be treated almost entirely at home. The pain is fairly minor, if difficult to deal with.

Should you wrap a sprained ankle overnight?

Most experts recommend that you only wrap your ankle during the day for support and protection, while you continue to ice, elevate and rest the injury. While some people feel a sense of comfort from a compression wrap at night—unless it provides pain relief, you shouldn't have your ankle wrapped while you sleep.

How do I know if my ankle pain is serious?

Can ankle sprains get worse?

If your symptoms last more than a week without getting better, or if they seem to be getting worse and are accompanied by a fever, make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible. More severe sprains should be treated by a healthcare provider.

When should you get an xray for sprained ankle?

It's time to get an X-ray if your child has any of the following symptoms: Tenderness over the bony prominence on either side of the ankle, particularly if it's in the back. Inability to bear any weight for four steps (limping counts as weight-bearing).

How do I know if my foot injury is serious?

What will a doctor do for a sprained ankle?

Depending upon the grade of injury, your doctor may recommend a cast boot, air splint, and/or crutches. Even a complete ligament tear can heal without surgical repair if it is immobilized appropriately. Your doctor may tell you to incorporate motion early in the healing process to prevent stiffness.

What is the difference between a rolled ankle and a sprained ankle?

A sprained ankle is similar to a twisted ankle but to a greater degree. When you sprain your ankle, it means you have stretched, and possibly even torn, the ligaments of your ankle. If your ankle is swollen, bruised and painful after you twist it, then you have most likely sprained it.

Will the doctor give me a boot for a sprained ankle?

Your doctor might give you a cast, boot, or brace to wear. This will keep the ligaments and joint in place while they heal. It limits motion, provides protection, and helps reduce pain. You may need to wear it for 2 to 6 weeks.

Should I keep my walking boot on all day?

You SHOULD keep the boot on while you're laying around the house to prevent bumping the injury and to help the foot heal properly. Listening to your doctor and following the treatment plan will help to get you better and out of the boot faster!

Should you elevate a sprained ankle while sleeping?

Healthguidance.org recommends how to sleep with a sprained ankle is by elevating it slightly to drain fluids and prevent unnecessary swelling, so place a pillow or some blankets under the offending ankle while you sleep. Also apply some ice before going to bed to reduce inflammation.