Is my ankle sprained if I can walk on it?

What Is a Sprained Ankle? Do not walk on a sprained ankle. The inflamed tissue needs time to heal, and walking on it too soon may cause more damage.

How long should you avoid walking on a sprained ankle?

How Long Should You Wait to Walk on a Sprained Ankle? Generally speaking, the sooner you can walk on your ankle the better. If it is not too painful to walk on your ankle immediately after an injury it’s a good sign that you don’t have severe ligament or bone damage. Take it easy for the first 24 to 72 hours.

What is the first thing you should do if you sprain your ankle?

Treatment

• Rest. Avoid activities that cause pain, swelling or discomfort.
• Ice. Use an ice pack or ice slush bath immediately for 15 to 20 minutes and repeat every two to three hours while you’re awake.
• Compression. To help stop swelling, compress the ankle with an elastic bandage until the swelling stops.
• Elevation.

How can I prevent a sprained ankle from recurring?

The following tips can help you prevent a sprained ankle or a recurring sprain: Warm up before you exercise or play sports. Be careful when walking, running or working on an uneven surface. Use an ankle support brace or tape on a weak or previously injured ankle. Wear shoes that fit well and are made for your activity.

Is it OK to walk on a Grade 3 ankle sprain?

For some patients with a Grade III ankle sprain, bearing weight and walking on the ankle may simply be too painful. With a Grade I sprain, you can generally walk on the ankle, but you may want to consider a walking boot or at least a supportive shoe to help protect the ankle from rolling.

What is the difference between a sprained and a bad ankle?

When a ligament is stretched or torn, a “sprained” ankle is the result. Ligaments are tough bands of tissue, but when they are pulled to their limit, they can tear. If the tear is bid, the result is a bad sprain. Flexibility, strength and good balance can help prevent ankle sprains from happening.

What does it mean when your ankle feels unstable?

The ankle feeling wobbly or unstable Chronic ankle instability usually develops following an ankle sprain that has not adequately healed or was not rehabilitated completely. When you sprain your ankle, the connective tissues (ligaments) are stretched or torn.