Ankle injuries are among the most common injuries, especially for active individuals, athletes, and even children who love to run and play. Whether it happens during a game of soccer, jogging, or just from an awkward step, ankle sprains and strains can have a significant impact on your mobility and daily activities. Recognizing the difference between these two types of injuries is crucial for ensuring you receive the right treatment. Misidentifying an injury or delaying medical care can lead to prolonged recovery or even long-term complications. For many, visiting urgent care for sprained ankle treatment is a practical solution to quickly address the injury and get back on your feet. Learn how to
Understanding Ankle Strains vs. Sprains
Both ankle strains and sprains are common injuries, but they involve different parts of the body and require distinct approaches to treatment. Here’s what sets them apart:
- Ankle Sprain: An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments—bands of tissue that connect bones—are overstretched or torn. Ligaments provide stability to the joint, and when they are injured, it can lead to swelling, bruising, and instability in the ankle.
- Ankle Strain: An ankle strain, on the other hand, affects the muscles or tendons around the ankle. Tendons connect muscles to bones, and a strain occurs when these tissues are overstretched or torn. Strains often result from overuse or excessive force during physical activity, causing pain, muscle spasms, or weakness in the affected area.
| Injury Type | Common Symptoms |
| Sprain | – Swelling and bruising around the ankle
– Limited range of motion – Instability |
| Strain |
– Pain and tenderness in the muscle – Muscle spasms or cramping – Weakness in the affected area |
Understanding the nature of your injury can help you determine the best course of action. To help you understand the difference between strain and sprain, here are some common symptoms of each injury.
Symptoms of Ankle Strains and Sprains
| Symptom | Ankle Sprain | Ankle Strain |
| Pain | Sharp pain immediately after injury, especially when moving or putting weight on the ankle | Gradual onset of pain, often felt in the muscles or tendons during movement or after physical activity |
| Swelling | Significant swelling around the ankle joint, sometimes accompanied by warmth | Mild to moderate swelling in the muscles or tendons surrounding the ankle |
| Bruising | Bruising may appear quickly around the injured area, often dark purple or blue | Bruising is less common, but may occur in severe cases where muscle or tendon fibers tear |
| Range of Motion | Limited range of motion due to ligament damage; the ankle may feel unstable or weak | Reduced flexibility and movement due to muscle tightness or discomfort |
| Tenderness to Touch | Ligaments around the ankle may be extremely tender to the touch | Muscles and tendons will feel sore or tight when pressed |
| Ability to Bear Weight | Difficulty or inability to put weight on the affected ankle without significant pain | Some discomfort when bearing weight, but typically less severe than with a sprain |
Because some symptoms of ankle strains and sprains can overlap, it can be difficult to self-diagnose. Both injuries may cause swelling, pain, and difficulty walking, but sprains tend to involve more bruising and instability, while strains often cause muscle spasms or tightness. For this reason, seeking a professional diagnosis is important to determine the correct treatment and avoid further damage.
At-Home Care vs. Professional Help: Know When to Visit Urgent Care
For minor ankle sprains or strains, at-home care may be sufficient to manage symptoms and promote healing. One of the most effective remedies is the RICE method, which stands for:
- Rest: Avoid putting weight on the injured ankle to prevent further damage.
- Ice: Apply an ice pack to the area for 15-20 minutes every few hours to reduce swelling.
- Compression: Use an elastic bandage or ankle brace to support the ankle and minimize swelling.
- Elevation: Raise the ankle above the level of the heart to help reduce swelling.
However, not all ankle injuries can be treated at home. If you’re dealing with any of the following signs, it may be time to seek urgent care:
- Persistent Pain: If the pain doesn’t improve with rest or worsens over time.
- Significant Swelling or Bruising: Extreme swelling or discoloration that doesn’t improve with home care.
- Inability to Bear Weight: If you’re unable to stand or walk without intense pain.
- Joint Instability: If your ankle feels like it’s going to give way when walking or standing.
Knowing when to visit urgent care for ankle injuries can prevent long-term complications and get you on the path to recovery faster. If you’re unsure whether your injury requires professional care, visiting +MEDRITE for an evaluation can provide peace of mind and ensure you’re on the right track for recovery. When it comes to treating a sprained ankle, +MEDRITE offers prompt, professional care to diagnose and manage your injury.
Quick Tip: To self-assess your ankle injury, try standing on the injured foot. If you experience significant pain or cannot put weight on it at all, it’s time to visit urgent care. If swelling or bruising persists for more than 48 hours, or if the ankle feels unstable, professional help is recommended.
+MEDRITE Urgent Care offers quick and effective treatment for sprains, strains, and other ankle injuries. With convenient locations and experienced staff, we provide immediate care to get you back on your feet. Find a center near you for expert help today.
Preventing Future Ankle Injuries: Tips for Staying Safe
Avoiding ankle strains and sprains is key to maintaining an active lifestyle without unnecessary interruptions. Whether you’re hitting the trails, playing sports, or enjoying a casual jog, these actionable tips can help keep your ankles strong and injury-free:
- Warm-Up and Stretching
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- Before any physical activity, engage in a dynamic warm-up to prepare your muscles and joints. This can include light jogging, jumping jacks, or leg swings.
- Focus on stretching the muscles around your ankles, calves, and feet. Gentle ankle rotations, calf stretches, and heel raises improve flexibility and reduce the risk of strains.
- Strength Training
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- Incorporate exercises that strengthen the muscles and tendons supporting your ankles. Exercises like toe walks, heel walks, and resistance band workouts enhance stability.
- Activities such as standing on one foot or using a balance board improve proprioception (your body’s ability to sense movement), which helps prevent missteps leading to sprains.
- Proper Footwear
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- Wear footwear that provides adequate support and cushioning for your specific activity. Ensure your shoes fit well and are appropriate for the terrain or sport.
- Regularly check your shoes for signs of wear and replace them when the support or tread wears down to maintain proper foot alignment and grip.
- Gradual Increase in Activity
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- Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts to allow your body to adapt.
- Pay attention to any pain or discomfort. If something doesn’t feel right, take a break to prevent overuse injuries.
- Use Protective Gear
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- If you’re prone to ankle injuries or participating in high-impact sports, consider wearing an ankle brace or taping your ankles for additional support.
- Safe Environment
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- Ensure your exercise area is free from obstacles, uneven surfaces, or slippery spots that could cause you to trip or twist an ankle.
- Learn and use the correct techniques for your activities to reduce unnecessary strain on your joints and muscles.
If you experience recurring ankle issues or want personalized advice on preventing injuries, it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional. Regular check-ups can help identify any underlying problems and provide tailored strategies to keep you active and healthy.
At +MEDRITE Urgent Care, we’re committed to helping you stay on your feet. Our experienced medical team offers assessments, treatment, and guidance for ankle injuries and prevention. For fast and efficient service, consider pre-registering online before your visit.