You get a sprained ankle when the ligaments which support your ankle get stretched or torn. It’s a common injury, often caused by twisting, rolling, or landing awkwardly on your foot.

Treatment options for sprained ankles vary depending on severity. The severity of a sprain can vary, ranging from mild overstretching to complete ligament tears.

To learn more about treatment, please follow this link: https://physioactive.sg/our-services/physiotherapy/injury-treatment. Signs of a sprained ankle typically include pain, swelling, and bruising around the joint.

You may also experience some level of difficulty as you walk or try to put weight on the injured foot. In some cases, the ankle might feel unstable or give way under pressure.

If the area is swollen and tender to touch, it’s likely a sprain. It’s important to differentiate a sprain from a fracture.

Severe pain, inability to bear any weight, or a visibly deformed ankle may indicate a broken bone. If you suspect a fracture, please seek immediate medical care. For sprains, early treatment can significantly speed up recovery.

Is It OK to Walk on a Sprained Ankle?

If you have sustained an injury which you suspect could be a sprained ankle but can’t access treatment, you may wonder if it’s safe to walk on sprained ankle. Now, walking on a sprained ankle depends on the severity of the injury.

For mild sprains, you might be able to bear some weight with minimal discomfort. However, walking too soon can delay healing or worsen the injury.

If you’re dealing with a moderate to severe sprain, it is best to avoid walking initially. This is important because putting pressure on an injured ligament can cause further damage.

Rest is crucial during the first few days to allow the ligament to heal. You may want to use crutches or wear a supportive brace to help you avoid putting weight on the affected foot.

Your physiotherapist or doctor may recommend gradual weight-bearing as healing progresses. Starting with light activities and slowly increasing intensity ensures the ligament regains strength. Always listen to your body and stop if walking causes pain or swelling.

Should I Massage a Sprained Ankle?

So many people who visit our physiotherapy clinic for sprained ankle treatment in Singapore frequently ask; should I massage a sprained ankle? Here’s a good answer;

Massaging a sprained ankle can be helpful but should be done cautiously. In the early stages, when swelling and inflammation are present, avoid massaging the area.

Massaging during this phase can aggravate swelling and delay recovery. Once the acute phase (usually after 48-72 hours) has passed, gentle massage can encourage healing.

It helps increase blood flow to the injured area, which supports tissue repair. Massage also reduces stiffness and improves mobility as the ligament heals.

If you’re going to massage a sprained ankle, be sure to use proper techniques or seek help from a professional therapist. Deep tissue massage should be avoided until the ligament is stronger.

Overly aggressive manipulation can cause more harm than good. Always consult a knowledgeable provider before starting any massage therapy.

How Do You Heal a Sprained Ankle Fast?

If you’re keen to get back to your normal life in the shortest time you may also wonder; how do you heal a sprained ankle fast? To heal a sprained ankle quickly, you will need a combination of effective treatments and proper care. Here are the key steps to accelerate recovery:

      I.         Follow the R.I.C.E Method

The R.I.C.E (Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation) method is recommended as an immediate treatment for sprained ankle particularly in the first 48-72 hours. Here’s what it typically involves;

• Rest: Avoid activities that put stress on the ankle. Rest allows the ligament to heal without further strain.
• Ice: Apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours during the first 48 hours. This reduces swelling and pain.
• Compression: Use an elastic bandage to wrap the ankle snugly. Compression minimizes swelling and provides support.
• Elevation: Keep your ankle elevated above heart level whenever possible. This reduces fluid buildup and speeds up healing.

    II.         Use Supportive Devices: Braces, ankle supports, or crutches can help protect the injured area and speed up the recovery of a sprained ankle. They prevent excessive movement which allows the ligament to recover without additional strain. Supportive footwear can also provide stability during the healing process.

• Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or aspirin can help reduce pain and swelling. Always follow the recommended dosage and consult your doctor if needed.

1. Start Gentle Exercises Early: Once swelling subsides, gentle range-of-motion exercises can prevent stiffness. For example, try drawing the alphabet with your toes. Gradually progress to strengthening exercises, like toe raises or resistance band stretches, as the pain decreases.
2. Seek Physiotherapy: A knowledgeable physiotherapist can create a tailored rehabilitation program to restore strength, flexibility, and balance. They’ll guide you through exercises that promote recovery without risking re-injury.
3. Consider Professional Treatments: You may also want to consider advanced therapies, like ultrasound or electrical stimulation especially if you’re dealing with a severe ankle sprain. Done correctly, these treatments can accelerate healing by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation.

• Maintain a Healthy Diet: Did you also know that your diet influences your speed of recovery? Proper nutrition supports tissue repair and overall recovery. Foods rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals strengthen the healing process. You will also want to stay hydrated to reduce inflammation.
• Avoid Activities That Stress the Ankle: As you’re recovering from a sprained ankle, you will want to avoid any activity that may trigger the injury again. In this regard, be sure to refrain from high-impact activities or sports until your ankle is fully healed. You do not want to push too hard too soon as this can lead to setbacks or chronic instability.

1. Monitor Your Progress: It also does help to monitor your recovery process. This should be easy. Track your recovery by noting improvements in pain levels, mobility, and strength. If progress stalls or symptoms worsen, be sure to inform your physiotherapist..

Closing Thoughts

A sprained ankle can disrupt daily activities. The good news is that with proper care, you can recover quickly and fully. The key is identifying the severity of your sprain and following recommended treatments.

And as a general rule, always listen to your body and avoid rushing back to normal activities. If you’re in Singapore and need expert care, give us a call today or visit our clinic for personalized treatment. Call or visit us at;

PhysioActive (Orchard)

1 Orchard Blvd, #06-01 Camden Medical Centre, Singapore 248649

Phone: +65 6235 2647