What is a ankle ligament injury?
The ligaments on the outside of the ankle stop it rolling inwards. A bad sprain can tear them; if they heal loose, the ankle becomes unstable.
How it happens in sport
- Landing on someone's foot
- Rolling the ankle on uneven ground
- Changing direction sharply
Common in: Football, basketball, badminton, volleyball, running, cricket.
Symptoms
- Pain and swelling on the outside of the ankle
- Bruising
- Trouble walking
- Later, the ankle giving way or feeling weak
How it's diagnosed
The surgeon checks the ligaments and rules out a fracture. An X-ray or MRI may be needed.
Do I need surgery?
Most sprains, even complete ligament tears, heal with rehab. Surgery is for ankles that keep giving way despite proper rehab.
Treatment options
- Early care. Protect the ankle, control the swelling and start moving it early.
- Rehab. Strength and balance training, which also prevents the next sprain.
- Ligament repair or reconstruction. For ankles that stay unstable despite rehab.
Recovery timeline
- Mild sprainBack to sport in about 1 to 3 weeks
- Moderate to severeBack to sport in about 3 to 12 weeks
- After reconstructionBack to sport in about 3 to 6 months
Typical times. Your surgeon and physiotherapist will set yours.
Return to play at Recover
Hopping, cutting and landing tests on our floor before you're cleared, so the ankle is ready for the next awkward landing.
Cost and insurance in Gurugram
Most ankle sprains need only rehab. If surgery is needed, ankle ligament repair in Gurugram usually costs ₹0.8 – 1.8 lakh. Your exact quote comes in writing after the consultation.
Surgeons who treat this
- Dr Pranshul Bishnoi
MBBS · DNB (Orthopaedics) · ATLS · FIFA Diploma in Sports Medicine
- Dr Chandan Arora
MBBS · MS (Orthopaedics) · Shoulder Fellowship (Seoul)
Ankle ligament injury: FAQs
Do I need an X-ray for an ankle sprain?
If you can't put weight on it, or there's tenderness over the bone, yes, to rule out a fracture. The surgeon will decide.
Why does my ankle keep rolling?
The ligaments may have healed loose, and the balance system around the ankle may not have been retrained. Rehab fixes most cases.
When is surgery needed for an ankle sprain?
Only when the ankle keeps giving way after a proper course of rehab.
General information, not medical advice. Your surgeon will advise on your own treatment. If you can't put weight on a limb, or have numbness or severe pain, go to an emergency department.