Why Is My Ankle Still Hurting Weeks After a Sprain?

Ankle sprains often improve with time and proper care. But if your ankle still hurts weeks later, the injury may be more significant than expected or another structure in the ankle may also be affected.

How long does an ankle sprain take to heal?

An ankle sprain occurs when one or more of the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched or torn, often after the foot suddenly twists or rolls.

Recovery time depends largely on the severity of the injury. A mild sprain may improve within a couple of weeks, while a more significant ligament injury can take several weeks or longer to fully recover.

Even after the initial pain and swelling improve, the ankle may still feel weak or stiff. Returning to normal activity too quickly can also aggravate the injury and delay recovery.

Why does my ankle still hurt after several weeks?

There are several reasons why ankle pain can continue after what initially seemed like a simple sprain.

The ligament hasn't fully healed

A sprain can range from a mild stretching of a ligament to a partial or complete tear.

More significant ligament injuries naturally take longer to heal. Continuing to exercise, play sports, or repeatedly put excessive stress on the ankle before it has recovered can also prolong symptoms.

Your ankle has become weak or unstable

Ligaments help stabilize your ankle. After a sprain, the injured ligaments and surrounding muscles may not provide the same level of support they did before the injury.

You may notice that your ankle feels weak, gives way unexpectedly, or seems more likely to roll again.

Repeated ankle sprains can contribute to chronic ankle instability, making proper rehabilitation particularly important.

A tendon may also be injured

An ankle injury doesn’t always affect only the ligaments.

The tendons surrounding the ankle can also become irritated or damaged during a twisting injury. This may cause persistent pain, tenderness, or discomfort with certain movements even after the initial swelling from the sprain has improved.

You may have a fracture

Some fractures can initially resemble an ankle sprain because both injuries can cause pain, bruising, swelling, and difficulty putting weight on the affected foot.

If pain remains significant or you continue having difficulty bearing weight after an ankle injury, an orthopedic evaluation and X-ray can help determine whether a bone was fractured.

There may be damage inside the joint

A severe ankle sprain can sometimes damage cartilage or other structures within the joint.

This may cause ongoing pain, swelling, stiffness, catching, or difficulty returning to normal activities. An orthopedic specialist can determine whether additional imaging or treatment is necessary.

Can physical therapy help after an ankle sprain?

Physical therapy can be an important part of recovery, particularly when an ankle remains weak, stiff, or unstable after the initial injury has healed.

Treatment may focus on rebuilding strength, restoring range of motion, improving balance, and gradually preparing the ankle for normal activities.

For athletes or active patients, rehabilitation can also help restore the movements needed to safely return to running, jumping, or sports.

When should I see an orthopedic specialist?

If your ankle is gradually improving, some lingering discomfort may simply be part of the healing process. However, pain that doesn’t improve or continues interfering with normal activity deserves further evaluation.

Consider seeing an orthopedic specialist if you experience:

Persistent or worsening ankle pain
Significant or recurring swelling
Difficulty bearing weight
Limited range of motion
An ankle that repeatedly feels unstable or gives way
Pain that prevents you from returning to normal activities or sports

You should also have your ankle evaluated after a significant injury if you suspect it may be fractured rather than sprained.

At North Valley Orthopedic Institute in Mission Hills and Tarzana, California, Dr. Ramin Ganjianpour evaluates ankle injuries and can use diagnostic imaging when needed to determine what is causing persistent pain.

Depending on the injury, treatment may include bracing, physical therapy, pain management, or surgical treatment when necessary.

Call the nearest North Valley Orthopedic Institute office or request an appointment online today.