What to know about ankle sprain in athletes

An ankle sprain is an injury to one or more ligaments that support the ankle, often after the foot rolls inward during a landing, change of direction or contact. Pain, swelling, bruising and tenderness can appear around the joint. Walking may feel difficult, and an athlete may notice reduced balance or a sense that the ankle gives way. A sprain can be mild or involve a more substantial ligament injury, so symptoms alone do not establish its severity.

Repeated play before recovery can keep the ankle irritated and may reinforce poor balance. A clinician or physiotherapist can check movement, strength, stability and whether an X-ray assessment is needed. Read more about [Ankle Sprain](/conditions/ankle-sprain/).

In the first stage, stop the activity that caused pain and use comfortable support such as a brace or taping if advised. Elevate the ankle when resting, and use a cold pack wrapped in cloth for short periods if it helps swelling. Put weight through the foot only as comfort allows; crutches may help when walking is painful.

As pain settles, gentle ankle movement, calf flexibility, resistance exercises and single-leg balance can rebuild control. Progress to hopping, running, cutting and sport-specific drills in stages. Training shoes should fit securely, and an athlete should be able to walk, jog and change direction without increasing pain or swelling before full play.

Arrange prompt medical assessment if the ankle looks deformed, pain is severe, swelling increases quickly, or you cannot take a few steps. Seek urgent help if the foot becomes cold, pale, blue, numb or unusually weak. Assessment is also sensible when tenderness is directly over a bone, symptoms are not improving, or the ankle repeatedly gives way. A clinician can distinguish a sprain from a fracture or another injury and set a graded return plan.

Ask: Which movements should I avoid today? Do I need imaging or a brace? When can I begin balance and strengthening work? What signs show that I can resume running, jumping and competition? How can I reduce the chance of another sprain?