Ankle Sprain Treatment in Maryland
Ankle sprains are among the most common foot and ankle injuries. Inversion sprains occur when the foot turns inward and one or more of the three ligaments on the outside of the ankle are stretched or torn. The severity of the sprain determines the treatment. The podiatrists at Foot Centers of Maryland diagnose and treat ankle sprains for patients in Baltimore, Glen Burnie, Timonium, and Reisterstown, MD to promote proper healing and prevent repeat injuries.
Request an AppointmentHow Ankle Sprains Happen
Sprains often happen during sports, when stepping off a curb, walking on uneven ground, or wearing unstable shoes. Athletes who play basketball, soccer, football, tennis, and other sports that involve cutting and jumping are especially at risk. Learn more about our sports medicine care for athletes.
Grades of Ankle Sprains
- Grade I (Mild): Ligaments are stretched with mild pain and swelling.
- Grade II (Moderate): Partial tearing with more swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking.
- Grade III (Severe): A complete ligament tear with significant swelling, instability, and inability to bear weight.
Symptoms of an Ankle Sprain
- Pain on the outside of the ankle
- Swelling and bruising
- Tenderness to the touch
- Stiffness and limited range of motion
- Instability or a feeling that the ankle may give way
Because sprains and fractures can look and feel similar, X-rays are often needed. On-site X-rays are available at our Overlea, Glen Burnie, and Mercy offices.
Treatment for Ankle Sprains
A mild sprain is treated with immobilization, a period of non-weight-bearing, and anti-inflammatories, followed by re-training and strengthening. More severe sprains may need:
- Bracing or a Walking Boot: Stabilizing the ankle while ligaments heal. See our casting and immobilization services.
- Physical Therapy: Restoring strength, flexibility, and balance.
- Advanced Therapies: PRP or other regenerative treatments for slow-healing ligament injuries.
- Surgery: Repairing torn ligaments in cases of chronic instability through foot and ankle surgery.
Preventing Chronic Ankle Sprains
Proper treatment is essential to prevent re-injury and chronic ankle instability. A sprain that is not fully rehabilitated can leave the ligaments weak, making future sprains more likely. Balance training, strengthening exercises, supportive footwear, and bracing during sports all help protect your ankle. If you are dealing with ongoing discomfort, learn more about ankle pain treatment.
Ankle Sprain FAQs
How do I know if I sprained or broke my ankle?
Sprains and fractures can cause similar pain, swelling, and bruising. An exam and X-rays are the best way to tell them apart.
Should I see a podiatrist for an ankle sprain?
Yes, especially if you cannot bear weight, have significant swelling or bruising, or the ankle feels unstable.
How long does an ankle sprain take to heal?
Mild sprains may heal in a few weeks, while severe sprains can take several months with proper rehabilitation.
What is the RICE method?
RICE stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. It helps reduce swelling and pain in the first days after a sprain.
Why does my ankle keep spraining?
Repeated sprains are often caused by ligaments that did not heal fully, leading to chronic ankle instability.
Will I need a boot or brace?
Many moderate and severe sprains are treated with a brace or walking boot to protect the ligaments while they heal.
Do ankle sprains ever need surgery?
Surgery is uncommon but may be recommended for chronic instability or severe ligament tears that do not heal with conservative care.
Get Your Ankle Sprain Properly Treated
Proper care now helps prevent chronic instability later. Call (410) 844-4700 - Overlea Office, Mercy Office, Reisterstown Office, Glen Burnie Office, or Lutherville Office or request an appointment at our Overlea, Mercy, Glen Burnie, Lutherville, or Reisterstown office.