3 Grades of Sprained Ankles: What to Know

The terms sprained and twisted when applied to the ankle can mean different things to different people. You might see someone with a severe sprain who is unable to walk, or you might see someone who is still able to run on a sprain. If you saw a podiatrist in Pflugerville, TX, you would see these sprains broken down by grades, which can help people understand how sprains work and when they may need professional help for the injury.

The 3 Grades

Here’s what to know about the three major grades:

• One: Grade one ankle sprains in Pflugerville, TX refer to the ligaments stretching outside their range. Most of the time, the ligaments won’t tear, though there may be a slight tear. With grade one sprains, you’re likely to get a stiff ankle and light swelling.
• Two: A grade two sprain will have more severe tears in the ligament, though it won’t go through it entirely. You’ll probably feel pain to the touch, as well as swelling and bruising. However, the ankle will still feel relatively stable despite the moderate pain.
• Three: With the worst sprain, the ligament will be entirely torn through. You won’t be able to walk on it, and there will be severe bruising and pain. Grade three sprains involve serious swelling, and it’s important to stay off of them as they heal.

Sprained Ankles in Austin, TX

Sprained ankles are a common injury, and not only for athletes of every variety. Just stepping off the curb the wrong way can result in a serious injury. If you’re looking to treat a more complicated sprain, contact the offices of Dr. Jeffrey Lamour, DPM, PA (with locations in Austin and Pflugerville, TX) to learn more about how we can help.