Ankle Sprain Treatment in Fox Chapel and Pittsburgh
What Is a Sprained Ankle?
An ankle sprain is one of the most common sports injuries treated in Pittsburgh. A sprain occurs when one or more of the ankle ligaments are stretched or torn. Ligaments are strong bands of connective tissue that stabilize the joints.
There are three grades of ankle sprains:
- Grade I: Mild partial tear with minimal instability
- Grade II: Moderate partial tear with increased swelling and instability
- Grade III: Complete ligament tear with significant instability
The three ligaments most commonly injured during an ankle sprain are:
- Anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL)
- Calcaneofibular ligament (CFL)
- Posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL)
These ligaments are located on the outside of the ankle and are most commonly injured during an inversion ankle sprain, which occurs when the foot rolls inward and excessive force is placed on the lateral ankle structures.
This often happens during sports, stepping off a curb awkwardly, or landing improperly from a jump.
How Is an Ankle Sprain Diagnosed?
Diagnosis begins with a thorough history and physical examination. At The Pittsburgh Chiropractor, a structured orthopedic evaluation is performed to determine ligament involvement and joint stability.
Patients typically report:
- Rolling the ankle inward
- Immediate pain
- Swelling on the outside of the ankle
- Difficulty bearing weight
Orthopedic testing may include:
- Inversion stress testing
- Anterior drawer testing
- Posterior drawer testing
If the injury meets clinical criteria, an X-ray may be ordered to rule out fracture. MRI imaging is rarely required unless symptoms persist or a more complex injury is suspected.
How Is a Sprained Ankle Treated?
Phase 1: Acute Management (First 48–72 Hours)
Immediately following injury, the PRICE protocol is recommended:
- Protect the ankle from further stress
- Rest and reduce weight bearing
- Ice for 15–20 minutes every hour
- Compression with an elastic wrap
- Elevate above heart level
This helps reduce swelling and inflammation.
Phase 2: Rehabilitation
Once acute inflammation decreases, progressive rehabilitation begins. Proper rehab reduces the risk of chronic instability and repeat injury.
Treatment may include:
- Restoring ankle range of motion
- Improving joint mobility
- Strengthening surrounding musculature
- Proprioceptive and balance training
- Gradual return-to-sport progressions
In certain cases, adjunctive therapies such as shockwave therapy in Pittsburgh may be considered to help stimulate tissue healing when symptoms persist.
Without proper rehabilitation, recurrent ankle sprains are common.
Ankle Sprain Treatment in Fox Chapel
At The Pittsburgh Chiropractor, we evaluate and treat ankle sprains in athletes and active adults throughout Fox Chapel, O’Hara Township, Oakmont, and the surrounding Pittsburgh area.
Treatment may include:
- Soft tissue therapy
- Joint mobilization or manipulation
- Progressive exercise therapy
- Return-to-activity guidance
If you are dealing with ankle pain after rolling your ankle, you can contact our office here or schedule a consultation to determine the severity of the injury and the appropriate next steps.
Call: 412-517-8124
References
- American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society. Ankle Sprain. Retrieved from aofas.org
About the Author
Medically reviewed by Dr. Alex Tauberg, DC, RN, CCSP®, PSP | Last reviewed: March 5, 2026
Reviewed for clinical accuracy using an evidence-based, conservative care framework.
Dr. Alex Tauberg, DC, RN, CCSP®, PSP
Primary Spine Practitioner & Certified Chiropractic Sports Practitioner
Founder of The Pittsburgh Chiropractor LLC, Dr. Tauberg is a dual-credentialed healthcare provider (Doctor of Chiropractic and Registered Nurse). He specializes in evidence-based spine care and sports medicine, leveraging his advanced training in spine care, rehabilitation, and sports medicine to help active individuals and athletes recover from musculoskeletal injuries and return to the activities they enjoy.
Meet Dr. Tauberg What is a Primary Spine Practitioner? LinkedIn Profile Google Reviews Men’s Health Quote Healthgrades Quote Wall Street Journal MedCentral Feature
Education & training
- Doctor of Chiropractic: National University of Health Sciences
- Primary Spine Practitioner Certification: University of Pittsburgh
- Nursing Education: Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC); Capella University
- Graduate Nursing: William Paterson University (FNP program)
- Undergraduate: Eckerd College (Psychology)
Certifications Primary Spine Practitioner (PSP)
Certified Chiropractic Sports Practitioner (CCSP®)
Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
Emergency Medical Responder (EMR)
Professional Affiliation Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association
Direct Clinical Line (412) 517-8124
Content Standards Evidence-based guidance, reviewed and updated regularly
Pittsburgh: 55 Alpha Drive West Suite 6, Pittsburgh, PA 15238 | Gibsonia: 5332 William Flynn Hwy, Gibsonia, PA 15044 Clinical Content Last Verified: March 5, 2026
Educational disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes and does not replace individualized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
If you have severe symptoms, progressive weakness, fever, unexplained weight loss, recent trauma, or loss of bowel or bladder control, seek urgent evaluation.