If you sprain your ankle while running, you may find you’re able to continue to hobble along for a while, but soon, inflammation will set in. After this, any further running will be extremely painful , if not impossible.
Is it OK to exercise with a sprained ankle?
For minor or moderate sprains, most people can start exercising their sprained ankle after a few days of rest . Simple motion exercises and strength training are essential to help the ankle heal properly.
Can I run with a sprained ankle?
The rule of thumb is to return to running when you are pain-free, have full range of motion, and the strength in the injured ankle is equal to that in your uninjured side. With a mild sprain and a functionally protective brace, you can often return to running in a couple of weeks .
Is it OK to run on a swollen ankle?
As long as you are able to run without pain, I would not worry about the swelling , though you should apply ice to your ankle for about 15 minutes after running. I would recommend that you work on ankle motion, strength and balance.
Can I run with ankle pain?
So, stop running until your pain is completely gone , otherwise your injury can get worse. Either relax in the meantime or find alternative ways to exercise – swimming is a good alternative – while your ankle heals.
Can you run on a Grade 1 ankle sprain?
The rule of thumb is to return to running when you are pain-free , have full range of motion, and the strength in the injured ankle is equal to that in your uninjured side. With a mild sprain and a functionally protective brace, you can often return to running in a couple of weeks.
How long should you stay off a sprained ankle?
Mild sprains typically begin to feel better in a few days to a week and heal by six weeks . More severe ankle sprains could take more than a few weeks or months to fully recover. Severe sprains may cause excruciating pain, crutches may be needed. A return to regular activities may be delayed for weeks or months.
How long will a sprained ankle stay swollen?
Typically, swelling will reside naturally within two weeks of the injury, even with more severe ankle sprains. If severe swelling occurs after this, you may want to consult your doctor for an ankle injury.
What’s the difference between a twisted ankle and a sprained ankle?
A sprained ankle is similar to a twisted ankle but to a greater degree. When you sprain your ankle, it means you have stretched, and possibly even torn, the ligaments of your ankle. If your ankle is swollen, bruised and painful after you twist it, then you have most likely sprained it.
Do I have a Grade 2 ankle sprain?
Grade 2: A more severe sprain , but incomplete tear with moderate pain, swelling and bruising. Although it feels somewhat stable, the damaged areas are tender to the touch and walking is painful. Grade 3: This is a complete tear of the affected ligament(s) with severe swelling and bruising.
Is it bad to walk on a sprained ankle?
Although the first temptation might be to “walk it off,” this can cause more damage to stretched or torn ligaments and prolong recovery time. It’s important not to overdo it or get ahead of yourself: walking too soon on a sprained ankle can lead to reinjury, pain, and more chronic conditions like arthritis .
How do you fix ankle pain when running?
- Rest. Avoid putting weight on the ankle for 48 to 72 hours.
- Ice. Get an ice pack on the injury as soon as possible. ...
- Compress. Wrap your ankle with an elastic bandage or use a compression sleeve designed for ankles.
- Elevate. When possible, keep the ankle raised above your heart.
Should I run through pain?
If the pain is intense or the joint is swollen, you shouldn’t carry on running at all . Go home and rest, apply ice and compression and keep the leg raised. Keep the joint mobile, but avoid stressing it.
How do you heal a sprained ankle in 2 days?
- Rest. Resting the ankle is key for healing, and wearing a brace can help stabilize the injured area. ...
- Ice. Using an ice pack may reduce blood flow to the injury and help ease pain and swelling. ...
- Compression. ...
- Elevation.
What does a Grade 1 sprain look like?
A Grade 1 sprain is one where the ligaments have not torn, only stretched further than normal. Symptoms of a first-degree sprain include discomfort when jumping, jogging or sometimes walking . Pain is usually mild and swelling is minimal. The joint may be a little stiff and slightly less stable than normal.
Should I go to the hospital for a sprained ankle?
Go to urgent care if your pain level and swelling is significant and you have difficulty walking, to the point that you need assistance, due to the pain. Go to the emergency room if your foot is bruised, deformed, or you are unable to walk at all. You may have a fracture, broken bone or serious ligament damage.
