Proneness to repeated injury. Unstable or arthritic ankle joint following repeated injury. The full extent of injury cannot be determined for 12 to 24 hours. Third-degree ankle sprains require an average of 12 to 16 weeks to heal completely. If this is a first-time injury, proper care, surgery and sufficient healing time before resuming activity should prevent permanent disability.
Ligaments have a poor blood supply, and torn ligaments require as much healing time as fractures.
Follow your doctor's instructions. These instructions are supplemental. The goal is to prevent further injury to the torn ligaments. See a doctor immediately for proper diagnosis and care. See Appendix 1 for details.