Ankle sprains are one of the most common foot and ankle injuries, whether you twist your ankle during sports, step awkwardly off a curb, or lose your balance while walking. If you’re in pain or struggling with limited mobility from an ankle sprain, Allyson Otten, DPM, at Kettle Moraine Podiatry in Cedarburg, Wisconsin, can help. She provides expert diagnosis and treatment to prevent long-term complications, so call today or schedule your ankle sprain evaluation online.

What are ankle sprains? 

An ankle sprain is the unfortunate result if you overstretch or tear the ligaments that support your ankle (usually due to the foot rolling inward or outward unexpectedly). The ligament damage can make your ankle feel painful, swollen, and unstable. Sprains can run the gamut from mild overstretching to severe ligament tears.

Ankle sprains are among the most common foot and ankle injuries, affecting athletes, active individuals, and even people simply walking on uneven ground. A sudden twist, awkward landing, or misstep can overstretch your ligaments. 

At Kettle Moraine Podiatry, Dr. Otten specializes in diagnosing and treating ankle sprains with personalized care designed to relieve your discomfort, restore mobility, and help prevent future injuries.

How can I tell if my ankle is sprained? 

Common symptoms include:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Tenderness
• Stiffness
• Difficulty walking or bearing weight on your hurt foot

You might have also noticed a popping sensation at the time of injury. If your sprain is mild, you may have only minor discomfort, while more severe sprains can make it nearly impossible to stand or walk. 

Because fractures and tendon injuries can sometimes mimic a sprain, it’s essential to have Dr. Otten take a look at your ankle for a proper evaluation if your symptoms persist or worsen.

How are ankle sprains treated? 

The type of ankle sprain treatment appropriate for you depends on your injury. If it’s just a mild sprain, conservative care (such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation) may do the trick. 

Dr. Otten can prescribe supportive braces or walking boots to stabilize your ankle during healing, as well as show you exercises to help restore strength, flexibility, and balance while reducing the risk of future injuries. 

More severe ankle sprains may require advanced treatments such as custom orthotics, immobilization, or, in rare cases, surgical repair for chronic instability or torn ligaments.

How long do ankle sprains take to heal?

Like your treatment, recovery time varies depending on the severity of your sprain. Mild sprains may heal within a few weeks, while moderate to severe sprains can take several weeks to several months for full recovery. Seek prompt treatment at Kettle Moraine Podiatry to help speed up your healing.

If you’re experiencing ankle pain, swelling, or instability, Dr. Otten can help you get back on your feet. Call Kettle Moraine Podiatry today or book online to schedule an ankle sprain evaluation.