Customer question:
How long does a sprained ankle last? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
The duration of ankle sprains depends on the severity of the injury itself. Depending on the level of damage, healing time may vary:
- Mild sprain (grade I): In a mild sprain, the ligaments are slightly stretched, but there is no tear. Recovery usually takes one to three weeks. Symptoms include mild pain, swelling, and possibly some limited mobility.
- Moderate sprain (grade II): in a moderate sprain, the ligaments are partially torn. Recovery usually takes three to six weeks. Symptoms are usually more pronounced, including moderate pain, swelling, bruising, and somewhat more limited ankle range of motion.
- Severe sprain (grade III): in a severe sprain, the ligaments are completely torn. Recovery can take several months, depending on the severity of the injury, sometimes more than six months or a year. A severe sprain usually requires specialist treatment, including surgery when necessary. Symptoms include severe pain, severe swelling, bruising, and significantly limited range of motion and weight on the ankle.
