Summer Sports Are Back. Is Your Ankle Ready?
Summer is one of the busiest times of the year for outdoor activity. From soccer and pickleball to running, hiking, tennis, and recreational leagues, many people are spending more time on their feet and pushing their bodies a little harder.
While staying active has plenty of benefits, it also comes with an increased risk of injury. One of the most common problems seen during the summer sports season is the ankle sprain.
At Foot & Ankle Centers, patients across our three convenient DFW-area locations in Frisco, McKinney, and Little Elm, often seek care after twisting an ankle during a game, workout, run, or weekend activity. Many assume the injury is minor and try to walk it off. Sometimes that works. Other times, lingering symptoms may indicate a more significant injury that deserves attention.
What Happens During an Ankle Sprain?
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn. This often happens when the foot rolls inward or outward unexpectedly, placing excessive stress on the ankle joint.
Some ankle sprains occur during sports that involve quick changes in direction, jumping, or uneven surfaces. Others happen during everyday activities such as stepping off a curb, walking on uneven ground, or simply losing balance.
Common symptoms may include:
- Swelling around the ankle
- Pain with walking or weight bearing
- Bruising or discoloration
- Tenderness around the joint
- A feeling of instability or weakness
The severity can vary significantly. Some sprains involve mild stretching of the ligaments, while others involve more significant damage that affects ankle stability.
Dr. Tavakoli explains, "One of the biggest mistakes people make is assuming every ankle sprain is minor. If swelling, pain, or instability continues longer than expected, the injury needs to be evaluated."
Should You Walk It Off or Get It Checked?
Many athletes and active adults try to continue playing after an ankle injury. While some mild sprains improve with rest and time, persistent symptoms should not be ignored.
Continuing to play on an injured ankle may place additional stress on damaged ligaments and surrounding structures. In some cases, what appears to be a simple sprain may actually involve a more complex injury.
Warning signs that deserve evaluation include:
- Significant swelling that does not improve
- Difficulty putting weight on the foot
- Ongoing pain during activity
- Repeated ankle rolling or instability
- Symptoms that linger for weeks
Why Do Some Ankle Sprains Keep Coming Back?
One ankle sprain can increase the risk of future ankle injuries, especially if the joint does not fully recover. Ligaments help stabilize the ankle, and when they become stretched or damaged, the ankle may be more vulnerable to rolling again.
Some patients develop chronic ankle instability, where the ankle repeatedly feels weak, unstable, or prone to giving way. This can make sports, exercise, and even routine activities more difficult.
Several factors may contribute to recurring ankle sprains:
- Returning to activity too quickly
- Incomplete rehabilitation
- Weakness around the ankle joint
- Poor balance or proprioception
- Previous ligament damage
Addressing these issues early may help reduce the likelihood of future injuries.
How Can a Podiatrist Help After an Ankle Injury?
Treatment depends on the severity of the injury and the structures involved. A thorough evaluation can help determine whether additional testing, imaging, or treatment is necessary.
Depending on the situation, treatment may include:
- Activity modification and protected weight bearing
- Bracing or support devices
- Physical therapy and strengthening exercises
- Custom orthotics when appropriate
- Advanced non-surgical treatment for persistent injuries
- Surgical intervention for severe ligament damage or chronic instability
The goal is not simply to reduce pain. The goal is to help the ankle heal properly, restore stability, and support a safe return to activity.
Do Not Ignore Lingering Ankle Pain This Summer
Most active people expect occasional bumps and bruises during sports and exercise. However, persistent ankle swelling, instability, or pain should not automatically be dismissed as "just a sprain."
Early evaluation can help identify the source of the problem and reduce the risk of long-term instability or repeated injuries. Whether you were injured on the soccer field, pickleball court, running trail, or during everyday activities, getting the right diagnosis matters.
If you have experienced an ankle injury this summer, schedule an evaluation with Foot & Ankle Centers and learn what treatment options may help you return to activity safely and confidently.
Published by the Foot & Ankle Centers podiatry team | Serving Frisco, Little Elm, and McKinney, TX | (972) 712-7773
Educational purposes only. Not medical advice.