Suggest Treatment For Painful Ankle Sprain

Posted on Sun, 1 Nov 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 1 Nov 2015 Answered on

Mon, 23 Nov 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi. I sprained my ankle badly seven weeks ago. An Xray ruled out fracture. It is still not completely feeling right. I can walk without pain but have no strength or flexibility in it. Last night my partner discovered that ankle and foot is much warmer than the other one and it also looks red. Could there have been a hairline fracture missed by the xray and could there be an infection? I am otherwise well.

Answered by Dr. Aashish Raghu (19 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Ligament sprain and tears

Detailed Answer:
Hi there.

Welcome to Healthcare Magic.

Thanks for the query.

In ankle sprain, the ligaments covering the ankle can get stretched or torn. This can take 4-6 weeks to heal which is why it is still red. If there was a fracture, you wouldn't be able to walk at all.

I advise you to use a walking boot or basketball shoes with high top so that the ankles are protected unlike with other types of shoes. Apply ice to reduce inflammation. Walk carefully as until the ligaments heal, there is tendency to sprain and twist your ankle again.

I hope I have answered your query.

I will be available to answer your follow up queries.

Regards,

Dr. Aashish Raghu

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj