What does your ankle look like when it is sprained?

Sprains occur when ligaments, the tough bands of tissue that connect bones, are stretched or torn. Sprains most commonly affect the ankle, knee, and wrist.

When an ankle is sprained, it may appear:

Swollen: The area around the ankle may become swollen and puffy due to inflammation and fluid buildup.

Bruised: The skin over the ankle may appear bruised or discolored due to bleeding under the skin.

Tender: The ankle may be tender to the touch, especially when pressure is applied to the affected area.

Painful: Sprains can cause significant pain, especially when walking or moving the affected joint.

Instability: The ankle may feel unstable or wobbly, making it difficult to walk or bear weight on the affected foot.

Deformity: In some cases, a severe sprain may cause the ankle to appear deformed or out of place.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor for proper evaluation and treatment. Sprains can range in severity from mild to severe, and the treatment plan will depend on the extent of the injury.