Book appointment

Patient guide

Recovering from a sprained ankle: what the first two weeks look like

A patient-facing recovery timeline for a common ankle sprain, and the signs that mean a visit to a clinician is warranted.

Atria Health editorial team January 22, 2025 Updated September 12, 2025 6 min read

Most ankle sprains recover at home in two to four weeks with a simple plan. The first 48 hours matter most for keeping swelling down. The next two weeks are about getting movement back without re-injuring the ligament.

The first 48 hours

Use the RICE approach:

  • Rest — keep weight off the ankle for the first day or two.
  • Ice — 15 to 20 minutes at a time, three to four times a day. Wrap the ice in a cloth; do not place it directly on the skin.
  • Compression — an elastic bandage, snug but not tight enough to cause numbness.
  • Elevation — rest the ankle above the level of your hip when sitting.

Days 3 to 7

Swelling usually peaks around day 2 or 3 and then begins to ease. As it does, start gentle range-of-motion exercises:

  1. Trace the alphabet in the air with your big toe.
  2. Pull the foot gently toward you, then point it away.
  3. Move the foot inward and outward, only as far as is comfortable.

Weight-bearing can start when you can stand on the foot without sharp pain. Begin with partial weight using a chair back for support.

Week 2

Most people are walking without a limp by the end of week 2. Balance work begins here:

  • Stand on the recovering leg for 30 seconds with eyes open.
  • Repeat with eyes closed, near a wall for support.
  • Practice stepping forward, backward, and to each side.

When to come in

Book a visit if any of these happen:

  • You cannot put any weight on the foot 48 hours after the injury.
  • The ankle looks visibly deformed.
  • The skin over the ankle is numb or discolored.
  • Swelling and pain are not improving after the first week.
  • You have had several sprains on the same ankle.

Repeated sprains are a reason to see an orthopedic specialist. Each sprain stretches the ligaments a little further, and a structured strengthening program reduces the chance of the next one.

Returning to activity

Walking, cycling, and swimming come back first. Sports that involve cutting or jumping — basketball, soccer, tennis — come back last. A useful rule: if you can balance on the recovering leg for 30 seconds with your eyes closed, you are usually ready to start light sport-specific work.

This article is general information for typical mild to moderate ankle sprains. Severe sprains, or sprains in people with a history of repeated injury, may need imaging and a different plan.