Is it normal for a sprained ankle to hurt years later?

A sprain that happened years ago can leave residual weakness that isn’t noticed in normal daily activity, but subjecting the ankle to rigorous physical activity can further damage improperly-healed ligaments, and cause persistent pain and swelling.

Why does my ankle hurt years after injury?

“A sprain that happened years ago can leave residual weakness that isn’t noticed in normal daily activity, but subjecting the ankle to rigorous physical activity can further damage improperly healed ligaments, and cause persistent pain and swelling,” Cottom said.

What happens if a sprained ankle is not healed?

A sprained ankle can turn into a serious chronic instability if left untreated. When you leave torn ligaments to heal on their own, they can fuse together haphazardly and form weak, inflexible scar tissue. Your range of motion can suffer tremendously, resulting in difficulty walking for the long term.

How do you know if I tore ligaments in my ankle?

The first signs of a ligament tear are severe swelling and bruising. In a low ankle sprain, the bruise can track into the foot and the toes. A large swelling can appear on the outer side of your ankle. You will often no longer be able to put your full weight on the foot because of the pain.

Will my ankle sprain heal on its own?

Most ankle sprains heal with basic care that people can administer on their own, says Nelson SooHoo, MD, director of foot and ankle surgery for UCLA Orthopaedic Surgery.

How common is an ankle sprain?

Ankle sprain is one of the most common sports injuries — approximately 2-million people sprain their ankle each year. When is it cause for a visit to the doctor? Sprained Ankles | UCLA Vital Signs

How do I know if my ankle is sprained or sprained?

Watch someone who recently sprained his or her ankle attempt to balance on his or her leg: you will see a general lack of balance and coordination that is reflective of this phenomenon. A second clinical problem seen long after the initial ankle sprain is chronic stiffness.

What is the best treatment for a high ankle sprain?

If the injury does not improve with bracing and therapy over time, the best treatment is surgical ligament repair. (For an alternative ankle sprain scenario, also see this patient, whose high ankle sprain was treated with long-term bracing).