Sprained Foot Recovery Time

There is a difference between sprains and strains. A sprain to the foot can be defined as an injury caused to ligament, while strain of foot is defined as tendon or muscle injury. It is among the most common foot problems. Sprain causes much more severe pain as compared to a strain. The recovery time depends upon the severity of ligament getting elongated or broken and the degree of tear. The most commonly observed foot sprains are ankle sprains. Symptoms also vary according to the severity of the injury. Sprain causes an obstruction in blood circulation, thus causing the skin to turn purple or blue, along with sharp foot pain.

There are 3 categories of foot sprains such as grade 1, grade 2 and grade 3 foot sprain. Grade 1 foot sprain is defined as ligament overstretching, but without any joint injury. Grade 2 foot sprain is characterized by partial ligament tearing along with mild joint injury or instability. Grade 3 foot sprain causes complete ligament tear along with conspicuous instability of the joint. Sprained toe can be caused if the toe gets stubbed while running or walking or during any sport activity. Foot sprains attack ligaments located between mid foot bones and metatarsal joints.

Diagnosis and Treatment

After spraining the foot, person starts complaining of edema, also referred to as swelling and discomfort and pain on sustaining weight. Pain is confined to the ligament injured. Bruising along with swelling is observed. The doctor may suggest X-ray, which reveals stress fracture, if any. Further, CT scan or MRI is done to get a clear idea of injury. During the treatment, RICE acronym is strictly followed. RICE is, rest, ice, compression and elevation. Anti-inflammatory medicines are prescribed to alleviate swelling and reduce pain. In severe and chronic scenarios, splints, taping or orthopedic devices are suggested, however, for grade 3 foot sprains, surgery has to be undergone to recover from this foot problem.

Rehabilitation and Recovery Time

The time for recovery varies according to the severity of sprain and depends upon following the instructions by the doctor during recovery. Activities like exercising, walking, running during the rehabilitation, without your doctor's nod will just delay the recovery time of sprained foot. Mild strains in foot can be treated and rehabilitated by applying ice bag for a period of 2 - 3 days at the site periodically, or at intervals. Mild sprains can get cured completely within a couple of weeks, provided precautions are taken such as bracing or bandaging the injured area and keeping the foot stationary and elevated, however, in case of severe sprain, healing time is more. For grade I foot sprain, the time for recovery ranges between a fortnight to a month and for grade II foot sprain, it varies approximately between 1 ½ - 2 months. Grade 3 foot sprains take long time span to heal. Foot sprain or ankle sprain the time taken for grade 3 foot sprain is approximately 3 months. Once the inflammation alleviates, rehabilitation process concentrates on regaining back, the strength of intrinsic and extrinsic foot muscles. Gentle exercises are recommended as per individual's tolerance. Gradually, a person can resume work and daily activities after the above sprained foot treatment and rehabilitation.

In wake of an injury to the foot, consulting the doctor in time for initiating the treatment is essential. If the instructions are followed during recovery, the person can restore and start daily activities soon. I hope you found this article helpful. Take care!