Since the ankle takes 3 times the force of your body during running and jumping it is not surprising that there are over 20,000 ankle sprains in the United States every day. The ligaments which connect the leg to the ankle are can be stretched or torn. It is important to try and remember what position the leg and foot were in when the injury happened. This can assist your doctor in determining the type of injury you sustained. During your exam an x-ray of the foot and ankle may be taken to determine if any bones were broken or if the joints dislocated.
Acute ankle sprains occur by a sudden unexpected twist.
Chronic sprains are developed by repetitive injury to the ankle. These may be caused by a functional problem with the foot and ankle which may predispose an individual to twist their ankle. Additional tests such as MRI may be needed to determine the extent of the injury. This should be followed up by physical therapy to strengthen the ankle accompanied by supportive bracing. More severe sprains may require immobilization in a cast or surgery if the ligaments holding the ankle together are ruptured.