Ankle Sprain
What Is an Ankle Sprain?
Ligament Damage from Twisting or Rolling the Ankle. An ankle sprain occurs when one or more ligaments in the ankle are stretched or torn due to an unnatural twisting or rolling motion. Most sprains involve the lateral (outer) ligaments and happen when the foot rolls inward. This is one of the most common orthopedic injuries, especially in athletes and active individuals.
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Causes and Risk Factors
- Walking or running on uneven surfaces
- Landing awkwardly from a jump
- Sudden twisting or rolling of the ankle during sports
- Wearing unstable footwear (e.g., high heels, worn-out sneakers)
- Previous ankle sprains, which can weaken ligament integrity
Symptoms
- Pain on the outside or inside of the ankle
- Swelling and bruising around the ankle joint
- Tenderness when touching the injured area
- Difficulty bearing weight or walking
- Instability or a feeling of the ankle “giving out”
Diagnosis
- Clinical exam to assess swelling, tenderness, and range of motion
- Special stress tests to evaluate ligament stability
- Imaging:
- X-rays to rule out fractures
- MRI or ultrasound in cases of severe sprains or when chronic instability is suspected
Treatment
Non-Surgical Treatment
- Most ankle sprains can be treated without surgery
- RICE Protocol:
- Rest the injured ankle
- Ice the area for 15–20 minutes several times a day
- Compression with a bandage or brace
- Elevation above heart level to reduce swelling
- NSAIDs for pain relief
- Physical therapy to restore strength, flexibility, and proprioception
Surgical Treatment
- Rarely needed, but may be considered if:
- Ligament is completely torn and healing is poor
- Chronic ankle instability develops
- Injury involves multiple ligaments or is associated with a fracture
- Procedures include ligament repair or reconstruction using suture anchors or grafts
Recovery Timeline
Mild sprains (Grade 1): Recovery within 1–2 weeks with conservative care
Moderate sprains (Grade 2): 3–6 weeks of structured rehab
Severe sprains (Grade 3): 8–12 weeks or longer depending on ligament healing
Early rehabilitation is key to avoiding long-term instability or recurrent sprains
Expert Treatment at Kerlan Jobe Institute
At Kerlan Jobe Institute, our orthopedic specialists provide expert diagnosis and individualized care plans for ankle sprains. Whether your injury is mild or complex, we help you regain full ankle function and reduce the risk of re-injury through state-of-the-art treatment and rehabilitation.
Getting You Back in Motion
Surgery is just the beginning. How do you heal, move, and feel when all is said and done?
From NHL and NBA players to weekend warriors, our goal is the same: getting you back to doing what you love.
Patient Testimonials
highly skilled surgeon
“Dr. Kvitne operated on my shoulder 3 years ago and I had a perfect recovery and no problems since and I do not see a scar. He is kind with a great bedside manor and a highly skilled surgeon.”
Dr. Kharrazi truly got me back on my feet—literally.
One year ago, I tore several ligaments in my knee, and now I’m able to do the things I enjoy again.
His expertise, knowledge, and confidence are what made me choose him as my surgeon, and I will always be grateful to him and his entire team. Rudy, his assistant; Norma, who was always so prompt with all of my emails; and Blanca, who helped with forms—each of them made a difference. I can’t thank them enough for being there with me every step of the way.
I can’t say enough good things about Dr. Kvitne
“My experience with Dr Kvitne was amazing he is a outstanding Doctor what a talented man he is my knee was in such bad shape he did not have much to work with but he got in there and fixed me up there was so much that had to be repaired Dr Kvitne with his knowledge and experience repaired my knee so nicely done I have had knee surgery before but never like this I can’t say enough good things about Dr Kvitne awesome human being as well as a awesome excellent Doctor!!”
Dr. Kharrazi gave me my mobility back
After 2 knee surgeries with other Orthopedics I must say that Dr. Kharrazi is a miracle worker. I have my mobility back and my pain level is so greatly improved. Thanks Dr. K!
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Kerlan-Jobe provides comprehensive orthopaedic care for patients seeking expert treatment for sports injuries, joint pain, and mobility limitations. We offers specialized experience and a patient-first approach designed to support lasting results.
Contact the office to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.