Ankle Sprains

Ankle Sprains services offered in Justin, TX

An ankle sprain can happen in an instant—during sports, while stepping off a curb, or even while walking on uneven ground. At Arise Foot and Ankle in Justin, Texas, expert podiatrist William Stephens, DPM, provides prompt, effective care for ankle sprains of all levels. Whether your injury is mild or severe, early evaluation helps reduce pain, protect the ligaments, and prevent long-term instability. If you’ve twisted your ankle or are experiencing swelling and discomfort, schedule an appointment by phone or online today.

Ankle Sprains Q & A

What is an ankle sprain?

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support your ankle stretch beyond their limits or tear. These injuries most often affect the ligaments on the outer side of the ankle, but can happen anywhere in the joint. Sprains range from mild stretching to complete ligament tears, and without proper treatment, even a minor sprain can weaken the ankle and lead to chronic instability or future injuries.

What are the symptoms of an ankle sprain?

Ankle sprains cause a wide range of symptoms depending on how severely the ligaments were injured. Common signs include:

Sudden pain after twisting or rolling the ankle
Swelling and bruising
Tenderness to the touch
Difficulty standing or walking
Stiffness or reduced range of motion
A popping sound or sensation at the time of injury

If swelling is significant or you are unable to put weight on the foot, a medical evaluation is especially important.

What causes ankle sprains?

Ankle sprains occur when the foot suddenly turns inward or outward, placing strain on the ligaments. Factors that increase the risk include:

Walking or running on uneven surfaces
Wearing unsupportive or worn-out shoes
Playing sports that require sudden direction changes
Previous ankle injuries
Muscle weakness or poor balance
High arches or other structural foot issues

Even a simple misstep can cause a sprain if the ligaments are already weakened or fatigued.

How are ankle sprains diagnosed?

Dr. Stephens begins with a thorough physical exam, assessing swelling, tenderness, and ankle stability. He may move the ankle gently to determine which ligaments are affected and how severe the injury is.

Diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or MRI scans, may be recommended to rule out fractures, evaluate ligament tears, and assess for joint or cartilage damage. Accurate diagnosis helps guide appropriate treatment and recovery timelines.

What treatment options are available for ankle sprains?

Treatment depends on the severity of the sprain. Dr. Stephens may recommend:

Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) to reduce pain and swelling
Bracing or immobilization to protect the ankle as it heals
Anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief
Physical therapy to restore strength, flexibility, and stability
Custom orthotics to support proper alignment and prevent reinjury

Severe sprains or those that do not heal properly may require minimally invasive ligament repair to restore stability and function.

With timely care, most patients recover fully and return to normal activities without lingering pain. For expert evaluation and treatment of ankle sprains, call Arise Foot and Ankle or book online today.