Twisted Your Ankle? Here’s When It’s More Serious Than You Think

We’ve all heard someone say they “just twisted” their ankle — and many of us have done it ourselves. But while ankle sprains are common, they’re not always minor. In fact, without proper care, a simple sprain can lead to chronic instability, repeated injuries, and long-term joint damage.

At Restore Foot & Ankle Specialists, we see patients every week who come in with lingering pain or swelling from an old “twist” that never fully healed. Understanding when an ankle sprain is more than a minor injury can make all the difference in your recovery.

What Is an Ankle Sprain?

An ankle sprain occurs when the strong ligaments that support your ankle stretch or tear after an awkward twist, roll, or fall. These ligaments stabilize your joint and prevent excessive movement — but when overstretched, they become injured, causing pain, swelling, and instability.

Common Causes of Ankle Sprains:

• Stepping on uneven ground or landing awkwardly from a jump

• Sports that involve quick direction changes (basketball, soccer, tennis)

• Wearing unsupportive footwear

• Weak or unbalanced ankle muscles

• Previous ankle injuries that never fully healed

Types and Severity of Ankle Sprains

Not all sprains are the same. The severity depends on how much the ligament is stretched or torn.

• Grade 1 (Mild): Slight stretching or microscopic tearing. Mild swelling and tenderness, but you can usually walk.

• Grade 2 (Moderate): Partial ligament tear. Noticeable swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight.

• Grade 3 (Severe): Complete ligament tear or rupture. Significant pain, swelling, and instability. Walking may be nearly impossible.

The most common type is a lateral ankle sprain, where the foot rolls inward, injuring the ligaments on the outside of the ankle. Less common (but often more serious) are high ankle sprains, which involve ligaments above the ankle joint that connect the tibia and fibula.

Symptoms of an Ankle Sprain

You may have an ankle sprain if you experience:

• Sudden pain after twisting or rolling your ankle

• Swelling or bruising around the joint

• Tenderness to the touch

• Instability or “wobbliness” when walking

• Limited range of motion

• A popping sound or sensation at the time of injury

While mild sprains can improve with rest, more serious ones require medical attention to ensure proper healing and to prevent future instability.

When It’s More Than “Just a Twist”

Many people try to “walk off” an ankle sprain, assuming it’s no big deal. But untreated or improperly treated sprains can lead to chronic ankle instability — a condition where the ligaments never regain full strength, causing the ankle to give way repeatedly.

Warning Signs Your Sprain Needs a Podiatrist’s Attention:

• Pain or swelling that lasts more than a few days

• Inability to bear weight comfortably

• Bruising that spreads up the leg or foot

• Repeated ankle injuries or feelings of instability

• Numbness, tingling, or deformity around the joint

Ignoring these symptoms can result in ligament tears, tendon damage, cartilage injuries, or even fractures that mimic sprains.

How Podiatrists Diagnose Ankle Sprains

At Restore Foot & Ankle Specialists, our podiatrists perform a thorough evaluation to determine the extent of your injury. This may include:

• Physical exam: Checking for tenderness, swelling, and range of motion.

• X-rays: To rule out fractures.

• Ultrasound or MRI: To evaluate ligament and tendon damage.

Accurate diagnosis ensures you get the right treatment — not just temporary relief.

Treatment Options for Ankle Sprains

Treatment depends on the severity of the sprain, but the goal is always the same: reduce pain and swelling, restore mobility, and prevent re-injury.

1. RICE Therapy (Initial Care)

• Rest: Avoid activities that worsen pain.

• Ice: Apply 15–20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling.

• Compression: Use an elastic wrap or ankle brace.

• Elevation: Keep your ankle raised to minimize swelling.

2. Immobilization and Support

For moderate to severe sprains, your podiatrist may recommend a CAM walker boot, brace, or ankle taping to stabilize the joint while healing.

3. Medication

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories (like ibuprofen) can reduce pain and swelling.

4. Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

Rehab exercises restore strength, balance, and flexibility. Skipping rehab is one of the most common reasons sprains turn into chronic instability.

5. Custom Orthotics or Bracing

If foot structure or gait imbalances contributed to the injury, custom orthotics can improve stability and prevent recurrence.

6. Advanced or Surgical Care

In severe cases involving torn ligaments or chronic instability, surgical repair or ligament reconstruction may be necessary to restore full function.

Recovering from an Ankle Sprain

Recovery time depends on the grade of the sprain:

• Mild sprains: 1–2 weeks

• Moderate sprains: 3–6 weeks

• Severe sprains: 8–12 weeks (or longer, especially if surgery is required)

During recovery, it’s important to:

• Follow your podiatrist’s instructions closely

• Avoid returning to sports or high-impact activity too soon

• Continue balance and strengthening exercises after healing

Rushing recovery can lead to repeated sprains or long-term weakness.

Preventing Future Sprains

Once you’ve had one sprain, you’re more likely to have another — but prevention strategies can make a big difference.

Tips to Protect Your Ankles:

• Wear supportive shoes that fit well and suit your activity

• Warm up and stretch before exercise

• Strengthen your calves and ankle stabilizing muscles

• Use braces or taping during sports if you’re prone to sprains

• Avoid uneven terrain or worn-out footwear

Custom orthotics can also help correct biomechanical issues like overpronation, which increase the risk of rolling your ankle.

The Bottom Line

Ankle sprains are incredibly common — but they’re not always “just a twist.” Even a mild sprain deserves attention to prevent long-term instability or joint damage.

✅ At Restore Foot & Ankle Specialists, our podiatrists specialize in diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating ankle injuries of all types. From mild sprains to chronic instability, we offer advanced care and custom treatment plans to get you back on your feet safely. Contact our office today with Dr. Gireesh Reddy or Dr. Sirisha Pokala by calling (469) 573-3427 or by booking an appointment online.