Ankle sprains are the number one reason for missed participation in athletics. They are common injuries that occur among people regardless of age and activity level. A sprained ankle occurs when the strong ligaments supporting your ankle stretch excessively and tear. Ankle sprains vary in severity depending on the number of ligaments involved and the extent or degree of tear. Many sprains heal with simple home remedies like elevation, ice, and over-the-counter medications, but some do not improve with conservative treatment. If your ankle remains swollen and painful despite conservative treatment, your Sports Medicine Associates of San Antonio specialist may recommend a medical evaluation to ensure you don’t have a severe ankle sprain or fracture.
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Proper treatment and rehabilitation are vital because, when left untreated, a severe sprain can weaken your ankle, increasing the likelihood of injuring it again. Furthermore, repeated ankle sprain can lead to long-term problems such as arthritis, chronic pain, and instability.
The symptoms of an ankle sprain
The signs and symptoms of a sprained ankle vary depending on the severity or degree of the injury. Signature symptoms for an ankle sprain include:
- Pain with rest but mainly with weight-bearing or activity
- Tenderness when you touch the sprained ankle
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Limited or restricted range of motion
- Instability
A severe ankle sprain has similar symptoms to fractures and requires prompt medical evaluation.
Causes of an ankle sprain
A sprain occurs unexpectedly when your ankle is forced to move out of its normal position, causing one or more … Read More

