United Kingdom (Great Britain)
A 31-year-old female asked:
I twisted my ankle 4 weeks ago. it is still swollen, throbs a lot and hurts on the pad when i walk. no x-rays were done but i was told its a sprain. how long will it take to heal?
4 doctor answers • 9 doctors weighed in
Dr. Alan Ettingeranswered
Podiatry 51 years experience
You may: Need to have an x-ray or MRI to see if you have a fracture or ligament tear. Ankle sprains can take 8 to 10 weeks to heal on average.
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Dr. Jeffrey Sider commented
Sports Medicine 41 years experience
I would certainly do an xray at this time to rule out a fracture
An mri might need to be done based on the physical exam
Oct 20, 2012
Dr. Frank Holmesanswered
Sports Medicine 25 years experience
Varies: Recovery from an ankle sprain is highly variable. It depends on the degree of ligament tearing, the need and compliance with immobilization (boot, cast, brace), compliance with relative rest and the success with rehab. At times, occult ( hard to diagnose) fractures or bone bruising create longer recovery periods. Average full recovery from a typical sprain is 1-2 months.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Vann Johnsonanswered
Podiatry 15 years experience
4 weeks: Soft tissue such as ankle sprains take about 4-6 weeks to heal with the correct therapy and immobilization. Depending on the grade of the sprain, more or less non weight bearing (not walking on ankle) is required.
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5.5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A Verified Doctor commented
A US doctor answered Learn more
Healing time may vary depending on factors such as medical issues and activity level.
Apr 3, 2019
Dr. Payam Rafatanswered
Podiatry 24 years experience
Have it evaluated.: Swelling may last a long time following a foot or ankle injury. An x-ray can show if there is an underlying fracture. The x-rays may be falsely negative initially in cases of small stress fractures. You may have a soft tissue injury if it is just a sprain and may have damaged the muscle, tendon, or ligaments in the area. Have it evaluated by a professional and get the appropriate treatment.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.3k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Oct 27, 2020
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