Ankle Sprains: Recovery Tips and When to See a Doctor

Ligament tear (approximately), the doctor did not specify?

Recently, while playing basketball, I jumped and accidentally landed on someone else's foot, causing an ankle sprain.
After seeing a doctor, he advised me to apply ice for three days, followed by heat therapy, and to wear an ankle brace, with a recommendation to avoid re-injuring it for two months.
Now, it has been seven days since the injury, and I would like to ask:
1.
Why do I have some bruising on the inner side of my ankle even though I clearly sprained it inward (inversion)?
2.
I feel a bit of pain when walking.
Can I walk while wearing the ankle brace? Using crutches feels very noticeable.
3.
Should I continue with heat therapy for the entire two months, or is there a different approach? During this time, do I need to see a doctor for rehabilitation, or is it sufficient to do heat therapy at home?
4.
Do I need to see a doctor again to assess whether I have fully healed, or can I determine that myself?

A-Hsien, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/22

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

Ankle injuries are mostly ankle sprains, which typically involve the ligaments near the ankle joint, particularly the lateral talo-fibular ligament.
The injured ankle may swell and bruise, which can occur on either the lateral or medial side.
It is possible to walk with an ankle brace, but using crutches for additional support is safer to prevent re-injury.
After the injury, heat therapy can be started after three days to reduce swelling.
Additionally, it is important to gradually perform ankle movements such as dorsiflexion (lifting the foot upwards) and plantar flexion (pointing the foot downwards).
Full recovery usually takes about six to twelve weeks.
Rehabilitation can be done at home; you can try putting weight on the injured foot.
If it doesn't hurt and you can apply full pressure, then it is likely healed.
If you are still concerned, it is advisable to consult a physician.

Reply Date: 2016/05/22

More Info

Ankle sprains are a common injury, especially among athletes, and understanding the recovery process is crucial for a successful return to activity. Based on your situation, let’s address your questions and provide some additional insights into ankle sprains and recovery.

1. Bruising on the Inner Side of the Ankle: It’s not uncommon to see bruising on the inner side of the ankle even if the sprain was caused by an inversion (rolling the ankle inward). This can happen due to the way the ligaments and surrounding tissues react to the injury. When you sprain your ankle, the ligaments may tear or stretch, causing bleeding in the surrounding tissues. This bleeding can pool in areas away from the site of injury, leading to bruising on the inner side of the ankle.

2. Walking with a Brace: Yes, you can wear an ankle brace while walking. In fact, wearing a brace can provide additional support and stability to your ankle, which is particularly important during the healing process. It can help prevent further injury while you regain strength and mobility. If you find crutches cumbersome, using a brace is a good alternative, but be mindful of any pain. If the pain worsens, it’s advisable to rest and consult your doctor.

3. Heat Therapy Duration: After the initial 72 hours post-injury, transitioning from ice to heat is generally recommended to promote blood flow and healing. However, the duration of heat therapy can vary. While you can continue to use heat, it’s essential to listen to your body. If you experience increased swelling or pain, you may need to revert to ice therapy temporarily. As for rehabilitation, it’s beneficial to consult a physical therapist who can provide a tailored rehabilitation program. They can guide you through exercises to restore strength, flexibility, and stability, which are crucial for preventing future injuries.

4. Follow-Up with a Doctor: It’s advisable to have a follow-up appointment with your doctor, especially if you’re still experiencing pain after a week. They can assess the healing process and determine if further imaging (like an X-ray or MRI) is necessary to rule out more severe injuries, such as fractures. Self-assessment can be tricky; while some signs of healing are evident (like reduced swelling and pain), a professional evaluation can provide peace of mind and ensure you’re on the right track.

Additional Recovery Tips:
- Rest and Elevation: Continue to rest your ankle and elevate it when possible to reduce swelling.

- Gradual Return to Activity: As your pain decreases, gradually reintroduce activities. Start with low-impact exercises and avoid high-impact sports until fully healed.

- Strengthening Exercises: Once cleared by your doctor, incorporate strengthening exercises for your ankle. This can include resistance bands, toe raises, and balance exercises to enhance stability.

- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to any pain or discomfort. If you experience significant pain, swelling, or instability, it’s crucial to seek medical advice.

In conclusion, ankle sprains can take time to heal, and following your doctor’s advice is essential. Wearing a brace, managing pain, and considering physical therapy can significantly aid in your recovery. Always prioritize your health and consult with healthcare professionals when in doubt.

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