What does it mean if I feel a "pop" when I sprain my ankle?

Feeling a "pop" or "snap" when spraining your ankle may indicate a tear in the ligaments that connect the bones in the joint [2]. Ligaments are strong, flexible tissues that keep joints stable and help them move correctly [3]. Ankle sprain injuries can range from a simple stretching of the ligaments to a partial or complete tear [1].

Understanding Ankle Sprain Grades

Ankle sprains are classified into three grades based on the severity of the injury:

• Grade I: There is a mild stretching of the ligaments, and there may be microscopic tearing of the tissues. This is considered a mild injury that can improve with rest and some gentle exercises [3].
• Grade II: This involves a partial tear of the ligaments. In this case, you may need to use a splint or another stabilization device [3].
• Grade III: This is a complete tear of the ligaments. This severe injury often requires wearing a brace, splint, or cast for several weeks, and may require surgery, especially for younger or more active individuals [3].

Grade II and III sprains are often associated with the rupture of small blood vessels, which allows blood to leak into the tissues, causing bruising and discoloration [3].

Symptoms Associated with the Pop and When to Be Concerned

In addition to feeling a pop, symptoms of a severe ankle sprain may include sudden and intense pain, severe swelling or bruising, an inability to bear weight on the injured ankle or foot, and difficulty moving the joint normally [1]. If your injury is more severe, you may feel intense pain and significant swelling, and you may be unable to walk, or walking may be very painful [3].

When Should You See a Doctor?

It is important to properly evaluate an ankle injury to determine its severity. You should contact a healthcare provider if you notice any of the following [3]:

• Inability to walk, or walking is very painful.
• Pain that does not improve after using ice, rest, and pain relievers.
• The ankle does not feel better after 5 to 7 days.
• The ankle continues to feel weak or is easily re-sprained.
• Increasing discoloration of the ankle (red or blue/black), or if it feels numb, tingling, cold, or if there are changes in sensation.

In some cases, a healthcare provider may order an X-ray to look for a bone fracture, or an MRI to check for ligament injury [3]. For more information on when an X-ray is necessary, you can visit Ankle Sprain: Home Care vs. X-ray (Arabic).

Initial Care After an Ankle Sprain

Initially, treatment for ankle sprains includes rest, applying ice, compressing the injured area with a bandage or device, and elevating the injured foot [2]. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help reduce pain and swelling. Consult a doctor before using them if you have heart, kidney, or liver disease, high blood pressure, or a history of stomach ulcers or internal bleeding. Read the warnings and do not exceed the dosage listed or specified by your doctor [3]. Once pain and swelling improve, a healthcare provider may recommend a rehabilitation program that includes exercises to strengthen the ankle and prevent future sprains [1].

Medical references

• Sports Injuries
• Sprains and Strains
• Ankle sprain - aftercare