Grades of Ankle Sprains

Mild/Grade 1:
This grade is given when the body has been taken past its normal range of motion and the ligaments that hold the joints together have been overstretched but not torn.

Symptoms:

• Little to no swelling, which is usually localized directly over the sprained joint.
• Mild pain
• Mildly limited range of motion
• Weight bearing and walking are still possible.

Prognosis: Usually you can resume normal activities within 1-2 weeks.

Treatment:  Treatment for Grade 1 Ankle Sprain

Moderate/Grade 2:
This is the most common type of sprain and can include the relatively mild, partial ligament tears with a little swelling to severe ankle sprains that inhibit weight bearing or use of the joint.

Symptoms:

• Intense swelling
• Moderate pain
• Moderate loss of motion or use of the joint
• Walking can be impaired

Prognosis: Normal activities can usually be resumed within 2 to 4 weeks of the injury.

Treatment: Treatment for Grade 2 Ankle Sprain

Severe/Grade 3:
This injury is much less common and requires medical evaluation and care. This grade is from 50% to complete tearing of the ligament.

Symptoms:

• Intense swelling
• Extreme loss of motion
• Intense pain
• Painful weight bearing

Prognosis: Healing time is usually 12 weeks to 1 year; condition can become chronic depending on the way the ligament is repaired or the way it heals.

Treatment: Treatment for Grade 3 Ankle Sprain