A grade 2 ankle sprain is a common overuse injury caused by repetitive strain to the ankle. A Grade 2 ankle sprain is usually caused by overuse and is classified as a “non-displaced” ankle sprain.
What is a Grade 2 Ankle Sprain?
Grade 2 ankle sprains occur when the ligaments in the ankle become stretched or torn. In this type of ankle sprain, there is usually some pain in the ankle or foot but the joint is not unstable. Grade 2 sprains usually take about two to three weeks to recover from.
In a Grade 2 sprain, some but not all of the ligament fibers are torn. Moderate swelling and bruising above and below the ankle joint are common.
OrthoInfo Article “Sprained Ankle”
Level 2 Ankle Sprain Recovery Time
There are no set rules of recovery time for grade 2 ankle sprains. Recovery time depends on the severity of the sprain and the treatment that the patient receives. In most cases, patients will need to refrain from heavy weightlifting and strenuous activities for at least a month because these activities can put extra strain on the injured ligaments.
According to the University of Vermont Health Network article “How to Come Back Stronger and Faster After an Ankle Sprain”
Grade 2 ankle sprains involve greater injury to the ligament and can take up 4-6 weeks to allow full return to sport.
University of Vermont Health Network article “How to Come Back Stronger and Faster After an Ankle Sprain”
Once recovered from a level 2 ankle sprain a person who should be able to return to playing sports such as basketball, volleyball, soccer and running at roughly the same level as before.
How To Treat A Grade 2 Ankle Sprain
An ankle sprain is a common sports injury that can sideline you for a period of time if not properly treated. There are several key steps to treat an ankle sprain. Commonly referred to as the RICE protocol:
- Rest
- Ice to reduce swelling
- Elevation
- Compression bandage to limit swelling in the joint
The University of Michigan Medicine website advises:
As soon as possible after an injury, such as a knee or ankle sprain, you can relieve pain and swelling and promote healing and flexibility with RICE—Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.
University of Michigan Medicine Article “Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation (RICE)
It’s important to treat ankle sprains as soon as possible. Grade 2 sprains can progress to a grade 3 ankle sprain which is a more serious injury and could require a cast, crutches, and even surgery.
McDavid Level 2 Ankle Braces
McDavid has a few Level 2 ankle braces that are a good starting place for those suffering from ankle injuries. Their made of high-quality materials and are designed for people looking for a supportive ankle brace to help them avoid further ankle injuries.
McDavid 461 Ankle Brace
- BEST FOR Minor to moderate support and relief from pain, swelling and inflammation associated with arthritis, bursitis, tendonitis and sprains
- Lightweight and compressive
McDavid 432 Ankle Brace
- Our products will provid in protecting and helping reduct the incidence of injury
- Supports your return to activity and enhance performance
- Made using the highest quality and most innovative technology and materials
- 1/8 thick neoprene provides therapeutic heat retention and compress
Summary
Successful treatment of a Grade 2 ankle sprain involves rest, limited handling of the injury, and rehabilitation. We hope this article has been helpful in answering your questions about your ankle sprain and helps you have a speedy recovery!
Check out our article on the Zamst ankle brace Steph Curry wears to keep his ankles in playing shape.
We also have an article on basketball specific ankle braces as well.
A grade 2 ankle sprain is an ankle sprain that is not severe enough to require a cast. If you have mild ankle swelling, pain in your ankle, and bruising at the joint, it’s likely you have a grade 2 ankle sprain.
Yes. If the ankle is pain-free and the pain is not incapacitating, it’s okay to walk on it. If it’s very painful, it’s best to get it looked at by a doctor and have it x-rayed to make sure there isn’t any damage.
Some people hear a popping sound when they put their full weight on a Grade 2 ankle sprain. This is because the ligaments have stretched and the bone has been displaced. The good news is that this means the ligaments will rebuild and strengthen with rest and treatment.
Troy Wright
I am a lifetime basketball enthusiast and loved playing basketball competitively through high school. I still try and play at least 3 times a week and explore all kinds of equipment and training to keep myself on the court and continually getting better. I am a college basketball fanatic and move onto the NBA when March Madness ends.
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