A 38-year-old member asked:
what could happen if you walk on a sprained ankle?
2 doctor answers • 3 doctors weighed in
Dr. James Bicos answered
Orthopedic Surgery 22 years experience
More pain: If it is only a simple sprained ankle, walking on it too soon will only make the swelling worse and continue the pain. Sometimes a sprained ankle has significant ligament tears that can really make things worse if you walk on them too early, as they may not heal. Make sure to get an evaluation by an orthopedist.
5332 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Karim Badawy answered
Podiatry 8 years experience
Possible..: Hello,
Depending on the severity of the sprain. If not so severe protected weight-bearing could be advised. If severe and it is not rested, you risk further attenuation and damage to the lateral ankle ligaments. This will lead to vicious cycle of continued pain and swelling. Its important that you consult a specialist for further advice. Feel better!
663 viewsAnswered >2 years ago
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Similar questions
A 23-year-old member asked:
Can I walk on a sprained ankle?
4 doctor answers • 5 doctors weighed in
Dr. Thomas Deberardino answered
Orthopedic Surgery 32 years experience
Yes if NO fracture: Ankle sprains are one of the most common extremity injuries. Most mild sprains are effectively treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Walking is allowed and recommended as soon as it is tolerated. Splinting or bracing can be useful to speed up recovery and the ability to walk with more significant ankle sprains.
6186 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 30-year-old member asked:
How long do I have to wait before i can walk on my sprained ankle?
2 doctor answers • 2 doctors weighed in
Dr. David Bloome answered
Orthopedic Surgery 25 years experience
Depends: Depends on the severity of the ankle sprain. Less severe sprains allow the patient to ambulate right away. More severe sprains can take weeks before it is comfortable to bear weight. I recommend an evaluation by a healthcare professional if there's significant pain, swelling, and/or bruising.
5376 viewsAnswered Nov 15, 2020
A 41-year-old member asked:
I sprained my ankle, is it okay if i walk on it?
2 doctor answers • 3 doctors weighed in
Dr. Arnold Beresh answered
Podiatry 41 years experience
Yes: As long as there is not intense pain or swelling.
5360 viewsAnswered >2 years ago
A 42-year-old member asked:
Is it ok to walk on a sprained ankle?
1 doctor answer • 1 doctor weighed in
Dr. Richard Jay answered
Podiatry 43 years experience
Gentle pressure: Be aware that if the ligaments are totally ruptured, ambulation is not recommended. The ligament tear (sprain) in varying degrees. If the ankle is unstable, the ligaments may be totally separated, in that case you do don't want to put pressure on the ankle.
5322 viewsAnswered May 15, 2019
A 39-year-old member asked:
When can I start walking on my sprained ankle?
2 doctor answers • 3 doctors weighed in
Dr. Keyvan Ganz answered
Podiatry 19 years experience
Pain subsides: Listen to your body. After rest, icing, compression, elevation, the pain should subside with a low grade sprain. Then with the aid of an ankle brace you could start walking. If painful then wait. If pain persists after 5-7 days then seek a podiatrist.
5320 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
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Last updated May 6, 2020
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