The Movement Doctors are the Upstate’s ankle sprain experts
Ankle sprains are common, but they’re far from minor.
At The Movement Doctors, not only do we treat the sprain, but also we address the underlying causes—whether it’s faulty foot mechanics, muscle weakness, or other imbalances that put you at risk. With this personalized approach, we ensure you return to your activities with full strength, a restored range of motion, and the confidence to move without fear of reinjury.
Up to 40% of ankle sprains go on to develop chronic symptoms like pain, instability, and reinjury.
Ankle sprains are among the most common recurring injuries of the lower extremity. Why? Recovery standards are too low across the physical therapy and medical field. That’s why we set our standard far above the industry average.
Knee Pain Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does a sprained ankle take to heal?
A sprained ankle typically takes anywhere from 2 to 12 weeks to heal, depending on the severity of the injury. Mild sprains, where the ligaments are overstretched but not torn, generally heal in 2 to 4 weeks. Moderate sprains, involving partial tears of the ligaments, may require 6 to 8 weeks for full recovery. Severe sprains, with complete ligament tears, can take up to 12 weeks or longer, especially if physical therapy is needed to restore ankle strength and flexibility. Following a rehabilitation program is key to preventing chronic instability or future injuries.
- When should I worry about a sprained ankle?
You should worry about a sprained ankle if you experience severe pain, excessive swelling, or if you're unable to bear weight on the injured foot. Persistent bruising, instability, or pain that worsens over time could signal a more serious injury, like a fracture or significant ligament tear. If symptoms don’t improve after a few days of rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), or if you notice a popping sound during the injury, seek medical evaluation to rule out complications.
- What is a high ankle sprain?
A high ankle sprain is an injury to the syndesmotic ligaments that connect the tibia and fibula bones, located just above the ankle joint. Unlike a typical ankle sprain, which affects the ligaments on the outside of the ankle, a high ankle sprain occurs due to twisting or rotational forces on the foot. This type of sprain is more common in sports that involve sudden cutting or twisting motions, like football or soccer. High ankle sprains are typically more painful and take longer to heal, often requiring immobilization and physical therapy to regain full function.
- Why is the rate of reinjury so high for ankle sprains?
The high rate of reinjury for ankle sprains is often due to incomplete healing or inadequate rehabilitation. When ligaments are overstretched or torn, they don’t always return to their original strength or flexibility, leading to chronic ankle instability. Without proper physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles and restore balance and coordination, the ankle remains vulnerable to future injuries. Additionally, many people return to physical activity too soon, increasing the risk of reinjury.
- How do I treat a sprained ankle?
The best solution for hip pain is finding the root cause and addressing it with targeted exercises. If you can’t come in for an evaluation or you want to get started immediately, we've created a home guide designed for athletes and active adults to help alleviate ankle pain.
Our Mission
Our mission to empower those for whom movement is a way of life.
We are the architects of comebacks, and the engineers of success. The experts who have seen this before, and the partners that finally solve the problem. We are the attendants to champions, and the heralds of victory. We are… The Movement Doctors.
How We Work
Part art, part science - our work combines cutting edge techniques with hard-won insights to ensure our clients leave the recovery process stronger than ever.
Here For You
For athletes and active adults, physical therapy isn’t just about relieving pain. It’s about getting back on the path to achieving your goals. We act as partners on that journey, with a program tailored to your unique mind, body, and story.
A Bespoke Experience
With a boutique, personalized experience - you’ll feel the care and intentionality of our team from our first conversation to our final session.
