What Makes an Ankle Sprain Worse If I Ignore It?

Yes, ignoring an ankle sprain can cause the injury to worsen by leading to chronic ankle instability, permanent ligament damage, and early-onset arthritis. When a sprain is left untreated, the ligaments may heal in a “stretched out” or lax position, which significantly increases your risk of future trips, falls, and repeated injuries. At Sahara West […]
Is It Okay to Sleep With a Sprained Ankle Without Treatment?

No, it is not recommended to sleep with a sprained ankle without any treatment or stabilization. Overnight, fluid can pool in the injured joint, leading to increased morning stiffness, intense throbbing, and significant swelling. Properly managing the injury before bed helps control inflammation and prevents accidental re-injury if you move or roll over during your […]
What Should I Do Right After Twisting My Ankle?

Yes, right after twisting your ankle, you should immediately follow the R.I.C.E. protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) to manage pain and limit internal bleeding. Taking quick action within the first 24 to 48 hours is essential for reducing long-term inflammation and speeding up your total recovery time. At Sahara West Urgent Care, we recommend […]
What Are Signs That My Ankle Might Be Broken Instead of Sprained?

Yes, you can often distinguish a broken ankle from a sprain by checking for bone-specific tenderness, visible misalignment, and the inability to bear weight. While both injuries cause pain and swelling, a fracture typically involves intense pain directly on the bone or a “grating” sensation (crepitus), whereas a sprain primarily affects the soft ligaments surrounding […]
How Long Does a Sprained Ankle Usually Take to Heal?

Yes, a sprained ankle typically takes between 1 week and 6 months to heal, depending on the severity of the ligament damage. While a mild (Grade 1) sprain may feel better within a few days to 3 weeks, a severe (Grade 3) tear involving a complete rupture of the ligament can require several months of […]
How Do I Know if My Ankle Sprain is Serious or Just Mild?

Yes, you can determine the severity of an ankle sprain by assessing your ability to bear weight, the level of swelling, and the stability of the joint. While mild sprains typically involve slight stretching of the ligaments, a serious sprain may involve a partial or complete tear, often requiring professional medical evaluation to rule out […]
When Should I Get an X-ray for a Twisted Ankle in Las Vegas?

Yes, you should get an X-ray for a twisted ankle if you are unable to bear weight, experience extreme pain directly on the bone, or if the swelling is significant and immediate. In Las Vegas, medical providers typically follow the Ottawa Ankle Rules to determine if a fracture is likely and if imaging is medically […]
Fatigue During Training? Sports Physical Las Vegas

Training is good for the body. Sports help you grow strong. Sports help your heart and lungs. Sports also help your mind. But sometimes athletes feel very tired. This tired feeling is called fatigue. Fatigue can make training hard. It can slow you down. It can make practice feel longer. It might increase the possibility […]
