Expert Foot & Ankle Treatment from Michigan’s #1 Podiatrist - Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist
Don’t Let Lingering Swelling Delay Your Recovery
Your Sprained Ankle Is Still Swollen What to Do About It?
If your sprained ankle is still swollen, you’re not alone. While most mild sprains improve within a week or two, persistent swelling can indicate deeper tissue damage or delayed healing. It’s your body’s way of signaling that something may still be wrong. At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist in Michigan, we help patients move from pain to progress with expert podiatric care tailored to long-term ankle health.
Understanding Why Your Ankle Swelling Won’t Go Away
A sprained ankle involves torn or overstretched ligaments, which naturally triggers swelling as the body sends healing agents to the area. But when swelling lasts beyond a typical healing window—usually more than 7–10 days—it may point to lingering inflammation, poor circulation, re-injury, or even complications like joint instability or undiagnosed fractures. Ignoring these signs could delay your full recovery and increase the risk of chronic ankle issues. Getting an accurate diagnosis and following a comprehensive treatment plan are essential for healing right the first time.
Still Struggling With Ankle Swelling? We’re Here to Help
If your sprained ankle is still swollen, don’t wait and hope it gets better on its own. At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist, our Michigan-based team provides expert diagnosis, advanced imaging, and tailored treatment plans to help you recover fully and safely. Schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward lasting relief.
![What Ankle Injuries require Surgery?[how to rehab an ankle sprain?]](https://images.rapidload-cdn.io/spai/ret_blank,q_lossless,to_avif/https://i.ytimg.com/vi/uEDzybwK8tc/maxresdefault.jpg "Reasons Your Rolled Ankle Sprain Is Still Swollen (and How To Fix It) 1")
7 Must-Know Healing Tips & When to See a Specialist
If your sprained ankle is still swollen or you’re unsure whether it’s healing correctly, these essential tips can speed up your recovery and help you avoid long-term damage. Healing properly is not just about rest — it’s about understanding your body’s signals and knowing when to get expert help.
Don’t Let a Sprain Slow You Down—Here’s How to Heal Smarter and Faster
1. Don’t Rush to Walk It Off
Even mild sprains need time to heal. Putting weight on your ankle too soon can delay recovery and worsen the injury. Start with rest and gradually reintroduce movement under medical supervision.
2. Follow the R.I.C.E. Method
Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation are the gold standards for early sprain care. Use cold packs for 15–20 minutes at a time, wrap the ankle with compression, and elevate it above heart level to reduce swelling.
3. Protect the Ankle With Support
Use an ankle brace or compression sleeve to stabilize the joint. This prevents re-injury during your recovery period, especially during walking or physical activity.
4. Avoid Anti-Inflammatories Too Early
While NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) can reduce swelling, using them too early might slow down the natural healing process. Ask your doctor what’s best based on your stage of recovery.
5. Begin Gentle Movement Early On
Once cleared by a medical provider, begin simple range-of-motion exercises. Gentle ankle circles and alphabet exercises can prevent stiffness and promote blood flow.
6. Listen to Your Pain Signals
Pain is your body’s way of telling you something isn’t right. If the pain gets worse with activity, stop immediately. Pushing through the pain can make the sprain worse or cause long-term instability.
7. Know When to See a Specialist
If your ankle is still swollen or painful after 7–10 days, it’s time to consult a podiatrist. You may have a more serious ligament tear, fracture, or instability that requires professional care.
Still Struggling with Swelling? Let Our Ankle Experts Help.
If your sprained ankle is still swollen after days or even weeks, it’s time to take the next step. At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist, our podiatrists provide targeted treatment to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and restore mobility. Don’t wait for it to get worse—schedule your personalized evaluation today and start healing the right way.
Are your ankle sprain ligaments still stiff or still swollen after a twisted ankle or rolled ankle? It is not normal for this to hurt for over 3 months or 6 months! It is not normal to have a swollen ankle sprain after 3 months or 6 months. Full Video
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FAQs About Swollen Ankles After a Sprain
Minor sprains typically swell for a few days, but more severe injuries can stay swollen for 2–3 weeks or longer.
No, prolonged swelling may suggest complications like ligament tears, improper healing, or underlying joint damage.
Elevate the ankle, apply ice, and avoid weight-bearing. If swelling persists, see a podiatrist for further evaluation.
Yes. Weight-bearing too soon can delay healing or worsen the injury.
If your ankle is still swollen after 7–10 days or you experience sharp pain, bruising, or instability, consult a podiatrist.
Yes. Persistent swelling might indicate a hairline fracture or tendon injury not caught in an initial exam.
A podiatrist can use imaging, physical exams, and rehab protocols to treat the root cause and guide recovery.
Absolutely. Targeted exercises and treatments can reduce swelling and restore mobility.
