How long should it take for a sprained ankle to heal?

Posted by Tom Harris on December 27th, 2021

Lateral ankle sprains are one of the most common sports injuries that athletes face. The ankle region in our foot works in a very complex manner with the synchronized action of the talocrural, subtalar, and inferior tibiofibular joints.

The most common symptoms that can be observed immediately after an ankle sprain is swelling, acute pain and inflammation. The tissue in the nearby region becomes tender to touch and the instability of the ankle makes it difficult for the affected person to put the balance and weight of the body on the ankle.

After the injury, immediate medical attention is required. Doctors or physiotherapists check the region by palpation and will also assess the range of motion about how much the ankle can move after injury.

Different Levels of Ankle Sprains and Their Healing Time

Different types of ankle sprains take different times to heal. It depends on the severity of the sprain. There are different grades of ankle sprain according to doctors and physiotherapists and treatment and healing procedures also change accordingly.

  1. Grade 1 ankle sprain

Grade 1 ankle sprain is characterized by a mild tear of the ligament which is visible on the outside as a mild swelling and a mild sensation of pain. It usually takes 3 weeks to heal but depending on the health condition of the person sometimes it can take 4 to 5 weeks as well.

  1. Grade 2 ankle sprain

Grade 2 ankle sprain is a bit more severe than grade 1 ankle sprain where there is damage to almost 50% of the ligaments present in the ankle joint. The patient suffers a temporary loss of mobility of the ankle for a few weeks and there is undoubtedly much more inflammation and pain. Usually, a grade 2 ankle sprain takes more than 4 weeks to heal but in some cases, it can take more than 6 weeks also.

  1. Grade 3 ankle sprain

Grade 3 ankle sprain is the most severe of all where the patient feels a pain almost similar to ankle fracture. This type of sprain is characterized by complete ripping off of the lateral ligaments of the ankle joints and the individual\'s ankle becomes immobile for a longer time. This requires a recovery period of almost 3 to 6 months and physiotherapy sessions are essential.

Ankle sprains can be usually treated completely without any kind of surgical intervention. However, medical attention is necessary in all cases. In severe cases, where the ligament is completely torn, then also it can be treated without surgery. Proper rest of the patient is essential. Regular icing of the affected area should be done to reduce swelling. Compression should be kept by bandages that immobilize the ankle joint.

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Tom Harris

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Tom Harris
Joined: September 29th, 2020
Articles Posted: 21

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