Sprained ankle: causes and which doctor to see

For sprained ankle you can first see: Orthopedics & Traumatology. If you are not sure, a family doctor (general practitioner) can assess you first and refer you to the right specialist.

The most common causes: the foot rolling inwards on uneven ground; sudden turns and jumps during sport; high heels or unsuitable shoes; weak ligaments from previous sprains. Only a doctor’s examination can determine the exact cause.

A mild ankle sprain heals in 1–3 weeks and a moderate one in 3–6 weeks. If you cannot put weight on it, an orthopaedic examination and X-ray are needed to rule out a fracture.

See Orthopaedics. If there is severe pain and deformity, go to the emergency department.

Mild sprains take 1–3 weeks; sprains with a torn ligament can take up to 6 weeks. Rest, cold and keeping the foot raised in the first days speed up healing.

Use cold in the first 48 hours (ice wrapped in a cloth, not directly on the skin). Heat in the first days can increase the swelling.

If the answer to any of these questions is yes, call 112 without delay: “Is the joint clearly deformed, or is bone visible through the skin?” “Is the foot cold, pale or numb?” “Is there confusion, fainting or difficulty waking up?” “Is there facial drooping, slurred speech or sudden weakness in an arm or leg?” “Are you struggling to breathe even at rest?”

See a doctor: you cannot put any weight on it; the swelling and bruising are increasing quickly.