Twisted your ankle during sports or a simple misstep? An ankle sprain is one of the most common foot and ankle injuries—and getting the right care early can make all the difference in your recovery. At our offices serving Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky and Cincinnati, Ohio, Dr. Bryan Fallis, DPM, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, provides expert diagnosis and treatment for ankle sprains of all severities.
Whether your injury is mild or severe, proper evaluation is essential to rule out fractures and prevent chronic instability. Dr. Fallis offers comprehensive, personalized care—from immediate injury management to rehabilitation—helping patients across Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati heal properly, regain strength, and safely return to their daily activities and sports.
What is an Ankle Sprain?
A sprain is the stretching or tearing of ligaments. Ligaments connect adjacent bones and provide stability to a joint. An ankle sprain is a common injury that occurs when you suddenly fall or twist the ankle joint, or when you land your foot in an awkward position after a jump. Most commonly, it occurs when you participate in sports or jump or run on a surface that is irregular.
What are the Symptoms of an Ankle Sprain?
Ankle sprains can cause pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, stiffness, and inability to walk or bear weight on the ankle.
How are Ankle Sprains Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of an ankle sprain is usually made by evaluating the history of the injury and through a thorough physical examination of the ankle. X-ray(s) of your ankle may be ordered by your doctor to determine the presence of a fracture.
What are the Treatment Options for Ankle Sprains?
The most common treatment recommended for ankle sprains is rest, ice, compression and elevation (RICE).
- Rest: You should not move or use the injured foot to reduce pain and prevent further damage. Crutches may be ordered to limit weight-bearing while walking.
- Ice: An icepack should be applied over the injured area for up to 3 days after the injury. You can use a cold pack or crushed ice wrapped in a towel. Never place ice directly over your skin. Ice packs help to reduce swelling and relieve pain.
- Compression: Compression of the injured area helps to reduce swelling and bruising. This is usually accomplished by using an elastic wrap for a few days or weeks after the injury.
- Elevation: Place the injured ankle above your heart level for about 2 to 3 hours a day to reduce swelling.
Your doctor may also apply a brace or splint to reduce motion of the ankle. Anti-inflammatory pain medications may be prescribed to help reduce pain and control inflammation.
What is the Rehabilitation for an Ankle Sprain?
During your recovery, rehabilitation exercises are recommended to strengthen and improve range of motion in your foot. You may need to wear braces or wrap to support and protect your ankle during sports activities. Avoid pivoting and twisting movements for 2 to 3 weeks. To prevent further sprains or recurrence of injury, you may need to wear a semi-rigid ankle brace during exercise, special wraps, and high-top lace shoes.
Why Choose Dr. Bryan Fallis for Ankle Sprain Treatment in Ft. Mitchell, KY & Cincinnati, OH
Ankle sprains may seem minor, but improper treatment can lead to long-term instability and recurring injuries. Dr. Bryan Fallis, DPM provides expert care to ensure proper healing and prevention of future issues.
Here’s why patients in Ft. Mitchell and Cincinnati trust Dr. Fallis:
- Board-Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeon: Expertise in treating ligament injuries and ankle instability
- Accurate Diagnosis: Thorough physical exams and imaging when needed to rule out fractures
- Immediate Care Approach: Early intervention using RICE protocol, bracing, and medications
- Comprehensive Rehabilitation: Guided recovery plans to restore strength, balance, and mobility
- Injury Prevention Focus: Strategies to reduce the risk of recurring sprains
- Convenient Local Access: Serving Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati communities
Dr. Fallis is dedicated to helping you recover quickly and safely while minimizing the risk of reinjury.
Ankle Sprain FAQs
What causes an ankle sprain?
Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments are stretched or torn due to twisting, rolling, or landing awkwardly on the foot.
What are the symptoms of an ankle sprain?
Common symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, stiffness, and difficulty bearing weight.
How do I know if my ankle is sprained or broken?
A proper evaluation, often including X-rays, is needed to rule out a fracture.
How long does it take to recover from an ankle sprain?
Recovery can take a few weeks for mild sprains, while more severe injuries may take several months.
Should I see a doctor for a sprained ankle?
Yes, especially if you cannot bear weight, have severe swelling, or your symptoms don’t improve within a few days.
Can ankle sprains lead to long-term problems?
Yes, untreated or poorly healed sprains can lead to chronic instability and repeated injuries.
Ankle Sprain Treatment in Ft. Mitchell, KY & Cincinnati, OH
Don’t ignore ankle pain or risk long-term instability. Get expert care from Dr. Bryan Fallis, DPM, serving Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky, and Cincinnati, Ohio.
Convenient locations in Northern Kentucky & Greater Cincinnati
Call today to schedule your evaluation
Same-week appointments available
Take the first step toward a full recovery—contact our office today for personalized ankle sprain treatment and get back on your feet with confidence.
