What is an Ankle Sprain?
An ankle sprain is an injury to one or more of the ligaments in the ankle. A ligament is like a rubber band that connects the bones to each other and bind the joints together. 

What Causes a Sprained Ankle?
Sprained ankles usually occur as the result of a fall, twist, or blow that forces the ankle's joint out of its normal position. These usually happen during sports, wearing incorrect shoes, or while walking or running on an uneven surface. 

Signs and Symptoms

• Pain or soreness
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Difficulty walking
• Stiffness in the ankle joint

These symptoms can vary in intensity, depending on how severe the sprain is. If you have had a sprain before, you may not experience pain or swelling, only a feeling that the ankle is unsteady or wobbly when you walk. However, even if you don't have pain or swelling, you should still contact your podiatrist, as medical treatment is crucial. 

Why Medical Attention Is Needed

• Left untreated, an ankle sprain can lead to chronic ankle instability
• There may be a more serious ankle injury in addition to the sprain, such as a bone fracture
• An ankle sprain might be accompanied by a foot injury that causes discomfort, but hasn't been noticed
• If ankle rehabilitation isn't started as soon as possible, the injury might be less likely to heal properly.

In short, always consult your podiatrist when an ankle sprain occurs. There may be more serious issues at hand that require their attention.