How long does an ankle sprain take to heal?
Typical recovery times for mild, moderate and severe ankle sprains, and why finishing rehab matters.
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Leslie Garcia, PT, DPT
Last reviewed:
Key points
- Mild sprains often feel better in one to three weeks.
- Moderate and severe sprains can take six weeks to a few months.
- Balance training lowers the chance of spraining the same ankle again.
What counts as a mild, moderate or severe sprain?
A sprain is a stretch or tear of the ligaments that hold the ankle bones together. Mild sprains stretch the ligament, moderate sprains partly tear it, and severe sprains tear it completely. Swelling, bruising and how much weight you can put on the foot give a first clue, but an exam is the best way to know.
How long does each one usually take?
Mild sprains often let you walk comfortably within one to three weeks. Moderate sprains usually take three to six weeks before you feel close to normal. Severe sprains can take several months, especially if you want to return to cutting and jumping sports.
Feeling better is not the same as being fully recovered. Strength and balance often lag weeks behind the pain.
Why do ankles keep rolling after a sprain?
A sprain affects the small sensors in the ligaments that tell your brain where your foot is. If those are never retrained, the ankle reacts a little slower and rolls more easily. Balance work, hopping drills and calf strengthening are what close that gap.
When should I get it checked?
See a doctor right away if you cannot take four steps, or if the bony bumps of the ankle are tender after a fall, because those can point to a fracture. Otherwise, book a physical therapy evaluation if the ankle is not clearly improving after a week or keeps giving way.
Related: Foot & ankle pain