How to prepare for a video visit about Ankle Sprain

Audience: adult

If you have injured your ankle and think it might be a sprain, a video visit with a healthcare provider can help you understand your injury and get advice on care. During the video visit, your provider will ask about how the injury happened, your symptoms, and may ask you to show your ankle on camera. This helps them assess the severity and guide you on treatment steps like rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Preparing for the visit by having your medical history ready and a safe, well-lit space for the call can make the appointment smoother. Remember, some ankle injuries need in-person care or imaging tests, so if your symptoms worsen or you have severe pain, swelling, or cannot move your ankle, seek emergency care. This guide helps you get ready for your video visit about an ankle sprain and know when to get urgent help.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Cannot bear weight on the injured ankle after the injury — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe swelling, bruising, or deformity of the ankle — get urgent medical evaluation.
• Numbness, tingling, or coldness in the foot or toes — go to emergency services right away.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild to moderate ankle sprains.
• Guidance on home care and symptom management.
• Advice on when to seek in-person care or emergency services.
• Follow-up discussions about recovery progress.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Diagnosing fractures or severe injuries requiring imaging.
• Performing hands-on physical examination or manipulation.
• Providing emergency treatment for severe injuries.
• Prescribing controlled substances or specialized interventions requiring in-person visits.

What is an ankle sprain?

An ankle sprain happens when the ligaments that support your ankle stretch or tear. This often occurs after twisting or rolling your ankle during activities like walking on uneven ground or sports. Symptoms usually include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the ankle.

How to prepare for your video visit

Before your video visit, find a quiet, well-lit area with good internet connection. Have your phone or computer charged and ready. Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to show your ankle clearly. Prepare to describe how and when the injury happened, your symptoms, and any treatments you have tried. It helps to have a family member or friend nearby in case you need assistance.

What to expect during the video visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about your injury and symptoms. They may guide you through simple movements to check your ankle's range of motion and stability. They might ask you to compare your injured ankle with the other one on camera. Based on this, they will suggest care steps or if you need to see a provider in person for further tests.

Common care advice for ankle sprains

Most ankle sprains improve with rest, ice application, compression with a bandage, and elevating the ankle above heart level. Your provider may recommend over-the-counter pain relief and exercises to regain strength and flexibility as you heal.

When to seek in-person or emergency care

If you cannot put any weight on your ankle, have severe pain or swelling, notice numbness or coldness in your foot, or if the ankle looks deformed, you should seek urgent medical attention. Also, if symptoms worsen or do not improve in a few days, an in-person visit may be necessary.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit area with good internet connection for your video visit.
• Charge your device and have it ready for the call.
• Wear clothing that allows easy viewing of your injured ankle.
• Have a family member or friend nearby to assist if needed.
• Prepare to describe how and when the injury occurred and your symptoms.
• Gather any previous medical records or relevant health information if available.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the care advice given during the video visit, such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation.
• Take any recommended over-the-counter pain relievers as directed.
• Perform any suggested exercises or stretches to aid recovery.
• Monitor your symptoms closely and note any changes or worsening.
• Schedule an in-person visit if advised or if symptoms do not improve.
• Seek emergency care if red-flag symptoms develop.

FAQs

Can a video visit diagnose an ankle sprain?

A video visit allows a healthcare provider to assess your symptoms and guide you, but it cannot replace a physical exam or imaging tests needed to confirm diagnosis. It is useful for mild to moderate injuries and deciding if you need in-person care.

What should I do if I cannot show my ankle clearly during the video visit?

Try to position your camera so your ankle is visible. If this is difficult, describe your symptoms clearly and any changes you notice. Your provider may decide if you need an in-person evaluation.

How soon after an ankle injury should I have a video visit?

You can schedule a video visit as soon as possible after the injury to get advice on care and decide if further evaluation is needed. Early assessment helps manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Can I get pain medication through a telemedicine visit?

Providers may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers during a video visit. Prescribing stronger medications often requires an in-person visit depending on local regulations and clinical judgment.

What if my symptoms get worse after the video visit?

If you experience increased pain, swelling, inability to move or bear weight, numbness, or other concerning symptoms, seek in-person or emergency medical care immediately.

Sources

1. Ankle Sprain — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Sprains and strains — Mayo Clinic.
3. Ankle Sprains and Strains — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Sprains and Strains — Merck Manuals: Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have severe symptoms or concerns, please seek immediate medical attention.