A sprained ankle might seem like a minor injury at first, but not all sprains are equal. While mild sprains can often be managed at home, some involve torn ligaments or other soft tissue injuries that require medical attention to ensure proper healing and prevent further injury.
At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, our board-certified foot and ankle experts, including Dr. Lynette Mahoney, Dr. Raymond O’Hara, and Dr. Narendra Patel, are here to diagnose and treat severe sprains with personalized, evidence-based care. If you're experiencing persistent symptoms, we’re here to help you recover fully and safely. Schedule an appointment with our team.
Let’s explore when a sprain needs professional attention and how to know it’s time to see a specialist.
Symptoms That Signal a Severe Sprain
Not all sprains are created equal. While mild sprains may cause discomfort, severe sprains or complete tears of ankle ligaments may mimic symptoms of a fracture or other serious injuries.
Here are signs that suggest a more severe injury:
- Severe swelling or bruising that worsens over hours or days
- Inability to bear weight on the affected joint without significant pain
- Unstable or wobbly feeling in the joint when walking
- A 'pop' sound or sensation at the moment of injury
- Persistent pain that does not improve with home care
- Loss of range of motion or inability to move the joint normally
- Numbness, tingling, or coldness in the injured area, which may indicate nerve involvement
If you're wondering “What does a sprain feel like,” and you're experiencing any of the above, it’s time to consider an evaluation with a specialist. These are also common signs of a torn ligament, which may need more intensive treatment than ice and rest.
Risks of Untreated Ligament Damage
Ignoring a moderate or severe sprain can lead to long-term issues like:
- Chronic pain or instability in the joint
- Incomplete healing, leading to repeat injuries or chronic sprains
- Development of arthritis or joint dysfunction
- Muscle weakness and poor balance
- Increased risk of developing stress fractures or compensatory injuries
Sprains that are not properly treated may also be masking more severe injuries such as fractures, ligament tears, or nerve damage.
When to See a Doctor
While mild sprains may heal with the rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E.) approach, it’s time to see a doctor if you notice:
- Trouble walking or completing everyday activities
- No improvement after several days of home treatment
- A history of frequent sprains or weak ankles
An orthopedic evaluation may include imaging tests like X-rays or MRI to rule out a broken bone, stress fracture, or severe soft tissue damage.
We may also recommend physical therapy if pain, instability, or reduced motion continues past the acute phase. A physical therapist can design a custom strengthening program to support healing and prevent future injuries.
Treatment Options for Severe Ankle Sprains
The right treatment plan depends on the severity of the injury and your overall health. Common options include:
- Immobilization: A brace, walking boot, or splint helps stabilize the injured joint and protects it from further damage while healing.
- Anti-inflammatory medications: These may be recommended to reduce swelling and alleviate pain, especially in the early stages of recovery.
- Cold packs and elevation: Regular use of a cold pack, combined with elevating the injured limb, helps reduce inflammation and control discomfort.
- Physical therapy: A structured program can help restore joint function, range of motion, rebuild balance, and prevent future instability. Strengthening exercises are especially important to support the injured area and prevent re-injury.
- Minimally invasive surgery: For complete ligament tears or when conservative care is ineffective, surgery may be needed to repair the damaged tissue and restore joint stability.
Our orthopedic specialists will create a personalised care plan that aligns with your recovery goals and lifestyle, ensuring your injury heals properly and efficiently.
Why Barrington Orthopedic Specialists Is the Right Choice for Ankle Sprain Care
At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, we believe in a collaborative, patient-centered approach to orthopedic care. If you’re dealing with an acute ankle sprain, our team of board-certified foot and ankle surgeons, Dr. Lynette Mahoney, Dr. Raymond O’Hara, and Dr. Narendra Patel, is here to help.
Our practice offers:
- Comprehensive diagnosis and imaging to rule out fractures or more serious injuries
- Conservative and surgical treatment options tailored to the severity of your sprain
- On-site physical therapy services that streamline communication and care between your physician and therapist
- Urgent orthopedic access through our Immediate Care Clinic for faster evaluations of sudden injuries
- A commitment to helping you prevent sprains in the future through education, support, and personalized rehab
From the first exam to full recovery, our team supports you at every stage with expert guidance and compassionate care.
Don’t Let a Sprain Slow You Down—Get Expert Help Today
Sprains can be deceiving – mild discomfort may evolve into chronic instability without the right treatment. If symptoms persist or worsen, Barrington Orthopedic Specialists can help with targeted care that promotes healing and prevents reinjury.
To start your recovery with expert guidance, schedule an appointment with Dr. Mahoney, Dr. O’Hara, and Dr. Patel at Barrington Orthopedic Specialists. Our team is here to restore strength, stability, and confidence in your steps.
