Sprained Ankle Treatment Specialist in Hoboken, NJ

A rolled ankle happens due to twisting or turning the ankle in an awkward manner, which can stretch or tear the ligaments. This motion often leads to a sprain. The confusion arises because while sprains are the result of a twisting motion that can be described as a “roll,” not all rolled ankles are severe enough to result in a sprain.

When you roll your ankle, it may result in a sprain, but it can also just be a bit painful without any lasting damage. A sprained ankle, however, specifically refers to the injury of the ligaments surrounding the ankle. This condition ranges from mild, involving minor stretching of the ligaments, to severe, where one or more ligaments are torn. Common symptoms of a sprained ankle include pain, swelling, bruising, and a reduced range of motion. Some people also notice a popping sound at the time of injury, which typically indicates a severe sprain.

Some signs that you’ve sustained a severe ankle sprain include:

● Severe or worsening pain – If the pain is intense and sharp immediately after twisting your ankle, it could mean you have a serious injury. The severity of the pain often correlates with the extent of the ligament damage.

● Swelling – Rapid and extensive swelling can indicate a severe sprain. Swelling is a natural response to injury, as the body increases blood flow to the area to start the healing process. More significant swelling can often mean more severe injury.

● Bruising – Bruising is a clear indicator of a more serious sprain. It results from small blood vessels under the skin breaking, which can occur when ligaments are overstretched or torn.

● Inability to walk – Difficulty bearing weight on the injured foot or an inability to walk at all is a sign of a severe sprain. This suggests that the stability of the ankle has been compromised.

In addition, if you tear the ligaments of your ankle severely, it’s common to feel or hear a popping noise when you sustain the injury.

Generally, it can take several weeks to a few months for a sprained ankle to fully heal. The healing time for this injury varies widely depending on the type of sprain:

● Mild sprains – These are often referred to as Grade 1 sprains where the ligaments are stretched but not torn. With a mild sprain, recovery can be as quick as two to three weeks. During this time, the focus is on minimizing swelling and maintaining motion in the ankle.

● Moderate sprains – Grade 2 sprains involve a partial tearing of the ligament. These sprains are more painful and usually take four to six weeks to heal. Commonly, healthcare professionals immobilize the affected ankle with a brace or splint to allow the ligament to heal properly.

● Severe sprains – Grade 3 sprains are the most severe type, involving a complete tear of the ligament. Typically, healing takes several months and often requires a structured treatment approach, including physical therapy and, in some cases, surgery to repair the torn ligament.

To accelerate the healing process for a high ankle sprain, it’s crucial to seek a medical evaluation promptly. The healthcare professional will assess the severity of your injury and recommend the most effective treatment approach to alleviate pain and promote fast healing. Your treatment may include wearing a brace to stabilize the ankle, attending physical therapy sessions to restore mobility and strength, and possibly using medications to manage pain and inflammation.

In addition, the R.I.C.E. method—rest, ice, compression, and elevation—is recommended by healthcare professionals to reduce swelling and discomfort during the initial phase of healing after the injury. Furthermore, it’s important to limit physical activities that may strain the ankle further to allow enough time for the ligaments to heal properly. Overall, following your doctor’s guidelines carefully is essential for a speedy recovery after an ankle sprain. We look forward to supporting your health and wellness journey. We serve patients from Hoboken NJ, Jersey City NJ, Weehawken NJ, West New York NJ, Guttenberg NJ, Secaucus NJ, Harrison NJ, Kearny NJ, Newark NJ, Belleville NJ, North Bergen NJ and Lyndhurst NJ