How long should I take rest for my sprained ankle?

Question

Hi doctor,

Four weeks ago, I sprained my ankle. At that moment, along with the twisted ankle, there was a popping sound also. On taking an X-ray, there was no element of fracture. I had a consultation with an orthopedic doctor, and he told me it was the nerve stretch. I have been taking the medication prescribed and wearing ankle support since then. I have no problem walking, but slight stretching of my ankle (like trying to stand on my toes) causes pain. Could you tell me how much longer I need to take rest and when to start my rehabilitation because the pain on stretching never seems to decrease?

Please do reply.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your concern.

The popping sound that you heard could be due to the ligament as well. The place where you pointing is also a ligament area. It could be a grade one strain of ATFL (anterior talofibular ligament).

I recommend you,

1. Do icing therapy frequently, at least every two hours, once for 15 minutes.

2. Gently massage the outer aspect of the leg and calf muscles.

3. Gently stretch the back of the leg and outer side muscles.

4. Mild massage across the area of pain very gently, like from the outer to the inner side, with slight angulation.

5. Your pain will subside in two to three days. Later you can start off with ankle-strengthening exercises.

Hope this is helpful to you.

Kindly revert back after two days and let me know the status to help you with ankle strengthening and proprioceptive exercises.