Ankle sprains are a fairly common sporting injury, although they can also occur during day-to-day activities. It occurs when the ankle is inverted (rolls inwards putting pressure on the outside) if you mis-step or don’t notice a kerb for example.
These sprains can vary greatly in severity, from a mild discomfort that will resolve in a few days, to significant swelling and an inability to weight bear that can take months to resolve and leave lasting deficits if not properly managed. If you cannot weight bear through the foot immediately after the injury you should seek immediate medical assessment to rule out a fracture or significant ligament rupture that would require medical input.
All management follows the principles of PEACE and LOVE. Depending on severity, this means an initial reduction in L-load to allow for healing. In severe cases, this can consist of wearing a protective boot or using crutches, but in most cases this will mean avoiding aggravating activities such as running, jumping or changing direction. Rehabilitation will usually consist of progressive strengthening and stability exercises, along with proprioception exercises, which is (re)training your body’s knowledge of its position and reactivity.
Dubois B, Esculier J. Soft-tissue injuries simply need PEACE and LOVE. British Journal of Sports Medicine 2020;54:72-73.