Common Symptoms
- Acute ankle pain, swelling, or bruising after a twist or fall
- Pain that worsens immediately with weight-bearing
- Tenderness along a specific bone, tendon, or ligament
- Gradual-onset pain that builds with activity over days or weeks
- Ankle instability, giving way, or repeated sprains
- Limited range of motion in the foot or ankle
Common Causes
- Ankle sprains (ligament stretch or tear)
- Stress fractures from repetitive impact
- Achilles tendinitis or tendon rupture
- Peroneal tendon injuries
- Jones fracture or 5th metatarsal avulsion fracture
- Plantar plate tears
- Lisfranc (midfoot) ligament injury
How We Help
Fjerstad, DPM begins every visit with a complete evaluation before recommending treatment. The goal is conservative, targeted care that addresses the root cause — not just the symptom.
- X-ray evaluation to rule out fracture
- Immobilization, protective bracing, or casting as needed
- Anti-inflammatory management
- Physical therapy referral for rehabilitation and strengthening
- Custom orthotics to support return to activity
- Surgical consultation for tendon repairs, instability, or displaced fractures
When to Call
Call for an appointment if your pain is persistent, worsening, or interfering with daily activity — or if you have diabetes, numbness, swelling, infection, or an open sore on the foot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my ankle is sprained or broken?
Both injuries cause similar symptoms — pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. An X-ray is often needed to distinguish between them. When in doubt, seek evaluation rather than waiting.
Should I wait to see if it improves before making an appointment?
For significant swelling, inability to walk normally, or pain directly over a bone, prompt evaluation is recommended. Delayed diagnosis of fractures or tendon injuries can complicate recovery and extend healing time.
How long does an ankle sprain typically take to heal?
Mild sprains often improve in 1–2 weeks. Moderate to severe sprains may take 4–8 weeks or longer, particularly with proper rehabilitation. Recurrent sprains may indicate an instability that warrants further workup.