A sprained ankle is easy to brush off. But a sprain that isn’t treated properly can lead to chronic instability and repeat injuries. Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle makes sure your ankle heals fully so you can get back to activity with confidence.
What is an ankle sprain?
An ankle sprain happens when the ligaments that stabilize the ankle are stretched or torn, usually when the foot rolls inward. Sprains range from mild (Grade 1) overstretching to complete ligament tears (Grade 3) that may need more involved treatment.
Symptoms of an ankle sprain
Expect pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and difficulty bearing weight. Severe sprains can feel unstable, as though the ankle might give way. Because a bad sprain can mimic a fracture, an exam and sometimes imaging are important to rule out a broken bone.
Treatment and rehabilitation
Early care follows the R.I.C.E. principle (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) along with protection and support. As healing progresses, guided rehabilitation restores strength, balance, and range of motion, which is the key to preventing future sprains. We treat both fresh injuries and chronic ankle instability from old, incompletely healed sprains.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my ankle is sprained or broken?
The symptoms overlap, so the safest answer is an evaluation. If you can’t bear weight, have severe swelling, or feel bone tenderness, get it checked. We use imaging to tell the difference.
How long does an ankle sprain take to heal?
Mild sprains often improve within a couple of weeks, while severe sprains can take longer. Proper rehab matters more than time. This is what prevents re-injury.
Don’t let foot or ankle pain keep you from the things you love. Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle has board-certified podiatrists in Murray, Draper, and Tooele serving patients across the Salt Lake City area. Call 801-261-1391 or request an appointment online. We get you in quickly, and same week appointments are usually available.
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