Medically Reviewed by Dr. Rachel N. Verville
March 5, 2025
Ankle sprains are one of the most common foot injuries that can be experienced in McKinney, TX. However, the condition also leaves people wondering if they can still walk with a sprained ankle. No matter how the injury occurred, be it because of a trip or fall, a sports injury, or a simple misstep, the first concern is usually focused on mobility.
RNV Podiatry takes ankle sprains seriously—and we are committed to helping our patients recover. In this blog, we’ll answer some common questions about whether you can still walk if you have sprained an ankle.
Should You Walk on a Sprained Ankle?
Ultimately, there is not a one-size-fits-all answer. Whether you can walk on a sprained ankle is based on the severity of the injury.
At the onset of an ankle sprain, rest, elevation, and avoiding weight-bearing activities are recommended, which will allow the ligament to heal properly. Trying to rush into walking too soon can aggravate the injury, make the recovery process longer and more painful, and potentially increase the risk of re-injuring the ankle in the future.
For moderate to severe sprains, podiatrists tend to recommend using crutches or a cane to move around so tremendous pressure isn’t placed on the injured foot. This will allow you to maintain mobility while preventing additional strain.
If the sprain is mild, it may be possible to walk without the assistance of crutches, but you should avoid putting too much pressure on the foot. It might be wise to wear an ankle brace or compression sock to stabilize your ankle if you absolutely must walk.
Remember that resting the ankle, using cool compresses on the ankle, wearing compressive ankle braces, and elevating your foot can make walking safer and speed your recovery.
How Do You Know the Severity of an Ankle Sprain?
Ankle sprains can range from a minor stretch to a complete ligament tear. The only way you can truly understand the extent of your injury is through consultation with a skilled podiatrist. This evaluation is essential for diagnosing the nature and extent of the injury and for creating a rehabilitation treatment plan that best promotes a full recovery.
Learn More About Managing an Ankle Sprain
If you have sprained your ankle, it’s understandable that you simply want to get back to feeling like your normal self. But don’t guess the next steps—making an appointment with a podiatrist is the best way to understand just how serious your injury is and whether walking is advisable. Proper care is key to recovering and avoiding long-term complications.
At RNV Podiatry, serving McKinney, TX, our team specializes in diagnosing and treating ankle sprains. We are committed to helping our patients regain their mobility and realize total health and wellness. Learn more about the treatment of ankle sprains by perusing all our resources.
