Sprained Ankle

At CornerHealth Urgent Care, we offer expert care for sprained ankles to help you recover quickly and safely. Our experienced team performs a thorough evaluation, including physical examination and diagnostic imaging, when needed, to determine the severity of your injury. We develop personalized treatment plans to promote healing and restore function. Whether your sprain is mild or severe, we focus on providing compassionate care to get you back on your feet.

What is a Sprained Ankle?

A sprained ankle occurs when the ligaments in the ankle are stretched or torn due to twisting or an awkward fall. It can happen during physical activity or while walking on uneven surfaces.

What Are the Types of Ankle Sprains?

There are three main types of ankle sprains:

Grade I: Mild stretching of the ligament.
Grade II: Partial tearing of the ligament.
Grade III: Complete rupture of the ligament.

What Are the Symptoms of a Sprained Ankle?

Common symptoms of a sprained ankle include:

Swelling around the ankle.
Pain, especially when putting weight on the ankle.
Bruising or discoloration.
Limited range of motion in the ankle.

How is a Sprained Ankle Diagnosed?

To diagnose a sprained ankle, our providers will:

Conduct a physical exam to assess swelling, bruising, and tenderness.
Ask about your injury history and activities.
Use diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, to rule out fractures or assess the extent of ligament damage.

How is a Sprained Ankle Treated?

Treatment for a sprained ankle focuses on reducing swelling, relieving pain, and promoting healing. Our care includes:

Resting the ankle and limiting movement.
Ice application to reduce swelling.
Compression with a bandage to support the injured area.
Elevation to reduce swelling.
In some cases, physical therapy or rehabilitation exercises to restore mobility and strength.

With prompt treatment, you can recover from a sprained ankle and return to your daily activities safely.

What are the common symptoms of a sprained ankle?

A sprained ankle typically presents with symptoms such as pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the ankle. You might also experience tenderness around the affected area. In more severe cases, you may hear a popping sound at the time of the injury and have significant difficulty bearing weight.

How is a sprained ankle diagnosed?

Diagnosis of a sprained ankle involves a physical examination by our healthcare professionals, who will assess the range of motion and tenderness. In some cases, we may use diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, to rule out fractures or more serious injuries and confirm the extent of the sprain.

What treatments are available for a sprained ankle?

Treatment for a sprained ankle generally includes rest, ice application, compression, and elevation (the R.I.C.E. method). Depending on the severity, our team may recommend immobilization with a brace and specific rehabilitation exercises to restore strength and flexibility. We tailor our treatment plan to ensure effective recovery.

When should I seek medical attention for a sprained ankle?

You should seek medical attention if you experience severe pain, significant swelling, inability to move the ankle, or if you cannot bear weight on the affected foot. Additionally, if symptoms do not improve with initial home care or if you suspect a more serious injury, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to receive appropriate care and avoid complications.