Updated January 2026
An ankle sprain is caused by a sudden twist, roll, or turn of the foot that forces the ankle joint out of its normal position. This action stretches or tears the tough bands of tissue (ligaments) that hold the ankle bones together. Most commonly, the foot rolls inward, damaging the ligaments on the outer side of the ankle.
Key Takeaways:
If you have recently rolled your ankle, understanding the cause and the correct rehabilitation steps is vital for preventing long-term joint damage.
- Primary Cause: Sprains occur when the foot rolls inwards, stretching or tearing outer ligaments like the ATFL.
- The Risk of Neglect: Failing to seek professional help increases the risk of chronic instability and ankle arthritis.
- Modern Treatment: RICE alone is insufficient; successful recovery requires early mobilisation and guided rehabilitation.
- Recovery Timeline: Healing typically takes six weeks for mild sprains and several months for severe injuries.
What Happens When You Sprain Your Ankle?
There are numerous ligaments that surround and support the ankle, preventing excessive twisting or rolling. An ankle sprain most commonly occurs when your ankle rolls rapidly downwards and inwards (inversion).
This movement results in the stretching, tearing, or rupturing of the ligaments on the outside of the ankle. The Anterior Talofibular Ligament (ATFL) is the most frequently damaged; it is the ankle’s equivalent to the ACL in the knee.
Common Symptoms
- Sharp pain at the time of injury and lingering soreness.
- Swelling and bruising around the joint.
- You might feel wobbly, or like your ankle is about to ‘give way’.
- Difficulty or inability to bear weight, walk or stand on the affected foot.
How is a Sprained Ankle Diagnosed?
Unfortunately, only around 50% of people who sprain their ankle seek medical attention. Following an ankle sprain, a large proportion of people will develop chronic ankle instability, being the leading cause of ankle arthritis. This can severely impact your physical activity levels and quality of life.This can severely impact your physical activity levels and quality of life.
Your podiatrist will diagnose the injury through:
- Discussing the mechanism of injury (the position your ankle was in when it rolled).
- Examining individual ankle ligaments or tendons for signs of injury or laxity.
- Checking for concurrent foot conditions that often present alongside a sprain.
Modern Treatment: Beyond the RICE Method
While RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) may be helpful in the early stages, current research shows that RICE alone is not beneficial for acute ankle sprains.
The New Standard of Care
- Early Mobilisation: Early exercises and progressive rehabilitation are essential to prevent long-term pain and stiffness.
- Pain Management: Oral paracetamol may be taken daily as required in the initial stages to manage discomfort.
- Avoid Over-Immobilisation: The use of crutches or boots is not beneficial unless absolutely required for a high-grade tear.
- Supportive Gear: Your podiatrist may provide footwear advice, ankle taping, or an evidence-based ankle brace for use in the first 4–6 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a sprained ankle take to heal?
Your recovery time will depend on the severity of the sprain. Mild sprains can take approximately six weeks to heal. More severe ankle sprains can take several months to fully recover. Please consult your podiatrist for an accurate timeline tailored to your injury.
Can I walk on a sprained ankle?
If the pain is manageable and there are no fractures, gentle walking can sometimes be encouraged. However, if you cannot bear any weight, you should seek a professional evaluation immediately to rule out a break or a complete rupture.
Why does my ankle feel “weak” months after a sprain?
This is often due to a lack of functional rehabilitation. Without proper strengthening and balance training (proprioception), the ligaments may remain stretched, leading to recurrent sprains and long-term instability.
Professional Support at Southwest Foot and Ankle Centre
The majority of patients prevent long-term complications with a structured treatment plan. However, if symptoms and recurrent instability persist, our podiatrists may refer you to our foot and ankle surgeon for a specialist opinion.
Enjoyed reading What Causes a Sprained Ankle? View our other informational podiatry blogs.
Contact Southwest Foot and Ankle Centre on 08 9791 1319 or email at info@swfootandankle.com.au
