You can treat mild ankle sprains at home with rest, ice, compression, and elevation. These can help reduce pain as well as inflammation. You can also take some over-the-counter pain medications to help with the symptoms. However, if you suspect you might have torn an ankle ligament, you must see a doctor. Depending on the severity of your foot and ankle injury, the doctor may prescribe surgery to correct the problem. Torn ankle ligaments typically take six weeks to heal, after which you must exercise the injured foot to improve muscle strength and regain range of motion.