I am 20 years old. i twisted my ankle outward while stepping off a curb. i went to the student health svc. the x-ray revealed strain. i got a brace and a crutch. should i see an orthopedic doctor now or wait for some time?

Wait: Given that there's no fracture, there's no need to see a specialist yet. Give it 1-2 weeks of rice (rest, ice, compression [the brace], & elevation), and if it's not improving then you need to see the dr.

Brace: I often recommend a brace called "air cast". This firm splint has air cells inside the sides that massage the ankle to squeeze the edema out of the ankle which help speed recovery. If not improving in 1-2 weeks and/or nearly well at a month see ortho.

Depends: Depends. How much swelling? Can you partially bear weight on it? Returning to a normal gait (no matter how slow you have to walk) is the key to success. Ortho will send you to physical therapy and hopefully they will give you a home exercise program and a encourage an early return to walking. When you are sitting, you should be moving your foot and ankle, even if it is only a slight movement.

Twisted ankle: If pain persists after 3 -4 days....See a specialist...She may need an mri.....To evaluate the ankle and tendons....