Red flags & when to go in person for Ankle Sprain

Audience: pediatric

An ankle sprain happens when the ligaments around the ankle stretch or tear, often after a twist or fall. In children, ankle sprains are common during play or sports. Most sprains heal with rest, ice, compression, and elevation. However, some signs mean your child should see a healthcare provider in person. These include severe pain, inability to walk, swelling that gets worse, or numbness. Telemedicine can help assess mild sprains, give advice on care, and decide if further care is needed. This guide helps families know when to seek in-person care and what to expect from telemedicine visits. Remember, this information is for education and not a diagnosis. Always consult a healthcare professional if you are concerned about your child's injury.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child cannot walk or put weight on the injured ankle — seek in-person care promptly.
• Severe pain or swelling that worsens despite home care — get evaluated in person.
• Numbness, tingling, or changes in skin color of foot or toes — urgent medical attention needed.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild ankle sprain symptoms.
• Providing guidance on home care and pain management.
• Determining if symptoms require in-person evaluation.
• Answering questions about injury and recovery.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examination maneuvers to assess ligament damage.
• Ordering or interpreting X-rays or imaging tests.
• Managing suspected fractures or severe injuries.
• Providing emergency care for severe symptoms.

What is an Ankle Sprain?

An ankle sprain happens when the ligaments, the strong bands connecting bones in the ankle, stretch too far or tear. This usually occurs after twisting the ankle during activities like running or jumping. Symptoms often include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the ankle.

Common Symptoms in Children

Children with an ankle sprain may have:

Symptoms can vary depending on how severe the sprain is.

When to See a Healthcare Provider in Person

Some signs mean your child should be seen in person:

These may indicate a fracture or serious injury needing urgent care.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine allows you to connect with a healthcare provider remotely. For mild ankle sprains, a provider can:

However, telemedicine cannot perform physical tests or imaging.

Home Care Tips for Ankle Sprain

Basic care often includes:

Follow your provider’s instructions for safe recovery.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have the child's injury details ready: how and when it happened.
• Note symptoms like pain level, swelling, ability to walk, and any numbness.
• Prepare to show the injured ankle via video if possible.
• List any medications the child is taking.
• Write down questions or concerns to discuss with the provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider’s advice on rest, ice, compression, and elevation.
• Use recommended pain relief methods as directed.
• Watch for any worsening symptoms or new red flags.
• Schedule an in-person visit if advised or if symptoms do not improve.
• Keep track of recovery progress and report concerns to your provider.

FAQs

Can my child walk on a sprained ankle?

Walking may be painful or difficult after a sprain. Mild sprains often allow some walking with discomfort, but if your child cannot walk or puts no weight on the foot, seek in-person care.

How long does it take for an ankle sprain to heal?

Healing time varies by severity. Mild sprains may improve in 1–3 weeks, while more serious sprains can take several weeks to months. Follow care instructions and avoid rushing activity.

When should I use ice versus heat?

Use ice during the first 48–72 hours after injury to reduce swelling and pain. Heat is generally not recommended early on but may help with stiffness later during recovery.

Is it safe to use a compression bandage?

Yes, a compression bandage can help reduce swelling. It should be snug but not too tight to avoid cutting off circulation. Remove it if fingers or toes become cold, numb, or blue.

Can telemedicine replace an in-person visit for ankle sprains?

Telemedicine can help assess mild injuries and guide care but cannot replace physical exams or imaging needed for serious injuries. Use telemedicine to decide if in-person care is necessary.

Sources

1. Ankle Sprain — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Sprains and Strains — Mayo Clinic.
3. Ankle Sprain: Symptoms and Treatment — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Pediatric Ankle Injuries — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical evaluation and treatment. If your child shows any severe symptoms or red flags, seek immediate medical care.