Treatments and Tips for Ankle Sprains That Won't Heal

Understanding Ankle Sprains That Won't Heal

Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries, with over 25,000 happening every day in the US. While most ankle sprains heal within a few weeks with proper treatment, some can linger and become chronic issues. A sprained ankle that won't heal can be frustrating and debilitating if left untreated.

Why Some Ankle Sprains Won't Heal

There are a few key reasons why an ankle sprain injury may fail to heal properly:

• Repeated re-injury or rolling the ankle again
• Returning to activity too soon before the injury has healed
• Lack of proper immobilization and rest early on
• Failure to keep swelling and inflammation under control
• Underlying ankle instability or mechanical issues

If an ankle keeps getting re-injured before it recovers, this can lead to chronic instability, inflammation, and tissue damage. Rushing back to sports, work or other activities too soon also stresses the injury before it has healed.

Signs Your Ankle Sprain Isn't Healing Properly

How can you tell if your ankle sprain recovery is lagging or has stalled out? Here are some key signs:

• Ongoing pain when walking or bearing weight
• Swelling that persists for weeks/months
• Feeling unstable, loose or that your ankle may "give out"
• Stiffness, tightness or decreased range of motion
• Inability to return to normal activities/sports

If your injured ankle still hurts or doesn't feel normal after 6-8 weeks, then it's likely not healing as expected. Getting an accurate diagnosis and adjusted treatment plan can help get recovery back on track.

Treatments For Ankle Sprains That Won't Heal

Getting a lingering, unhealed ankle sprain evaluated by a podiatrist, sports medicine doctor or orthopedist is important. They can identify any underlying mechanical problems or instability, and create a customized rehabilitation plan.

Immobilization

Using a walking boot or cast for 4-6 weeks can let the torn ligaments fully mend. This protects your ankle from re-injury while also letting inflammation settle down. Immobilizing the joint removes stress and strain on the damaged tissues.

Physical Therapy

Working with a physical therapist can be extremely helpful for ankle sprains that are slow to heal. They can design range of motion, strengthening, balance and stability exercises tailored to your injury and needs. This helps properly rebuild flexibility, muscle control and function.

Regenerative Injections

For severe, high grade ankle sprains that involve extensive ligament tears or damage, regenerative treatments like PRP or stem cell therapy can aid healing. Injecting concentrated growth factors or stem cells into the injured ankle can help repair, rebuild and regenerate the torn tissues.

Bracing & Supports

Wearing an ankle brace during activities adds crucial extra joint support and stability. This helps prevent rolling or unstable episodes that can further damage tissues trying to heal. Braces also limit unhealthy movements while protecting vulnerable ligaments.

Surgical Repair

In rare cases of severe ligament tears or instability, surgery may be needed to mechanically repair and tighten damaged ankle ligaments. This can reconstruct torn tissues to optimal tension and alignment for healing.

Tips For Healing A Sprained Ankle

While professional treatment is often necessary for sprained ankles that fail to improve, you can also take proactive measures at home:

Rest & Elevation

Give your ankle adequate rest by limiting walking and activity for the first few weeks. Elevate the ankle above heart level to promote circulation and minimize swelling around the joint.

Icing

Using cold compresses, ice packs or cold water immersion constricts blood vessels to reduce inflammation. Icing for 10-15 minutes every few hours can provide pain relief too.

Compression

Wearing an elastic wrap or ankle sleeve applies gentle pressure to control swelling and provide support. But don't wrap too tightly as this can restrict circulation.

Contrast Bathing

Alternating hot and cold water immersion enhances blood flow to transport healing nutrients while also controlling inflammation. Do a few cycles of 5 minutes hot, then 1 minute cold.

Nutrition & Supplements

Make sure to eat anti-inflammatory foods like fatty fish, turmeric, leafy greens and tart cherry juice. Supplements like glucosamine, MSM and omega-3s support connective tissue repair.

When To See A Doctor

Make an earlier appointment with your doctor or ankle specialist if you experience any of the following:

• Moderate to severe ankle pain lasting over 2 weeks
• Inability to bear full weight or walk normally
• Significant swelling, bruising or instability
• Loud popping/tearing sensation at time of injury
• Bone tenderness, deformity or suspicion of a fracture

Don't delay getting imaging tests or an accurate diagnosis if your ankle sprain seems severe or isn't improving as expected. Catching ligament damage early makes treatment much easier.

Take Sprained Ankles Seriously

While ankle sprains are common, they should never be brushed off or ignored. Even mild sprains require a proper healing period of rest and immobilization. Severe ankle injuries must be evaluated and rehabbed for long-term health.

Follow all doctor recommendations diligently after an ankle sprain and don't resume activity prematurely. Getting healthy again without chronic issues depends critically on this early recovery period.

With attentive self-care and expert guidance, nearly all ankle sprains will mend successfully over time. But a sprained ankle that won't heal may have underlying complicating factors requiring experienced solutions. Don't hesitate to get a second opinion if your ankle isn't improving as expected.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.