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ConditionsAnkle & FootAnkle Sprains
Injury

Ankle SprainsLigament Injury Recovery

Comprehensive treatment for ankle ligament injuries with evidence-based rehabilitation protocols.

Mild-Severe
Severity
Very Common
Prevalence
2-8 weeks
Recovery
Injury
Category
Overview

An ankle sprain occurs when the strong ligaments that support the ankle stretch beyond their limits and tear. The lateral (outside) ligaments are most commonly affected, particularly the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL).

Ankle sprains are among the most common sports injuries and can occur during everyday activities. Proper treatment and rehabilitation are essential to prevent chronic instability and recurrent sprains.

Severity Levels

Grade 1 (Mild)

Ligament stretching with minimal tearing

Symptoms:

  • •Mild pain and swelling
  • •Little to no instability
  • •Can bear weight with discomfort

Treatment:

RICE protocol, early mobilization

Prognosis:

Full recovery in 1-3 weeks

Grade 2 (Moderate)

Partial ligament tear

Symptoms:

  • •Moderate pain and swelling
  • •Some joint instability
  • •Difficulty bearing weight

Treatment:

Immobilization, physical therapy

Prognosis:

Recovery in 3-6 weeks

Grade 3 (Severe)

Complete ligament rupture

Symptoms:

  • •Severe pain and swelling
  • •Significant instability
  • •Unable to bear weight

Treatment:

Possible surgery, extended rehabilitation

Prognosis:

Recovery in 6-12 weeks or longer

Treatment Phases
1

Acute Phase (RICE)

0-72 hours

Control pain, swelling, and inflammation

Rest - avoid activities that cause pain
Ice - 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours
Compression - elastic bandage or brace
Elevation - raise ankle above heart level
2

Early Mobilization

3 days - 2 weeks

Restore range of motion and reduce stiffness

Gentle range of motion exercises
Weight bearing as tolerated
Ankle pumps and circles
Progressive walking program
3

Strengthening & Return

2-8 weeks

Restore strength, stability, and function

Progressive strengthening exercises
Balance and proprioception training
Sport-specific activities
Gradual return to full activity
Exercise Program

Range of Motion

Early phase, multiple times daily

Ankle Pumps

Point foot up and down slowly

10-20 repetitions every hour

Ankle Circles

Draw circles with your big toe

10 circles each direction

Towel Stretch

Use towel to pull foot toward body

Hold 30 seconds, repeat 3 times

Strengthening

After acute phase

Resistance Band Exercises

Push against band in all directions

2-3 sets of 10-15 repetitions

Calf Raises

Rise up on toes, lower slowly

2-3 sets of 15-20 repetitions

Heel Walks

Walk on heels for short distances

20-30 steps, 2-3 times

Balance Training

Progressive

Single Leg Stand

Stand on injured leg with eyes closed

Hold 30-60 seconds, 3-5 times

Wobble Board

Balance on unstable surface

2-3 minutes, 2-3 times daily

Lateral Hops

Small side-to-side hops

2-3 sets of 10-15 repetitions
Risk Factors

Activity-Related

Sports with cutting/jumping
Uneven surfaces
Poor footwear
Inadequate warm-up

Anatomical

Previous ankle sprains
High-arched feet
Muscle weakness
Poor balance

Environmental

Wet or slippery surfaces
Poor lighting
Obstacles or debris
Fatigue
Recommended for Ankle Recovery

Ankle Sprain Support Products

Accelerate your recovery with our professional-grade ankle braces, compression sleeves, and stability supports designed to protect and strengthen your ankle during healing and return to activity.

Recommended Products

Support & Protection

Ankle Braces

Stabilizing braces for support and protection

Compression Wraps

Elastic bandages and compression sleeves

Recovery Tools

Balance Training

Wobble boards and balance pads

Resistance Bands

Exercise bands for strengthening

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