What should you do if hurt your ankle about six months ago and the doctor who examined it said was a sprain but still hurts does not feel right cracks constantly when walking?

Possible Causes for the Continued Symptoms in Your Ankle:

1. Incomplete Healing: Sometimes sprains can take longer to heal completely, especially if they were severe. The continued cracking sound may indicate ongoing instability or incomplete healing of the ligaments or tendons in your ankle.

2. Ligament Damage: If the sprain was severe, it's possible that you may have damaged one of the ligaments in your ankle. Ligament injuries can cause chronic pain, instability, and cracking sounds.

3. Cartilage Damage: In some cases, a severe ankle sprain can also damage the cartilage in the joint, leading to pain and cracking sounds.

4. Bone Bruise: A bone bruise in your ankle can also cause pain, swelling, and cracking sounds.

5. Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons in your ankle (tendonitis) can also cause pain and cracking sounds.

Recommendations:

1. Consult a Specialist: If your ankle pain has persisted for six months and does not feel right, it is advisable to consult an orthopedic specialist or a podiatrist for further evaluation.

2. Diagnostic Imaging: Your doctor may recommend diagnostic imaging tests such as an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan to determine the exact cause of your symptoms.

3. Physical Therapy: Physical therapy exercises can help strengthen the muscles and ligaments in your ankle, improve stability and flexibility, and reduce pain and cracking sounds.

4. Rest and Immobilization: Depending on the severity of the injury, your doctor may recommend rest and immobilization to give your ankle time to heal. This may involve using crutches or a walking boot.

5. Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be recommended to manage pain and inflammation.

6. Bracing or Taping: In some cases, wearing an ankle brace or taping your ankle may provide additional support and stability.

It is important to follow the recommendations of your healthcare professional and complete any prescribed physical therapy to ensure proper healing and recovery of your ankle. Ignoring ongoing symptoms can increase the risk of chronic pain and instability.