Ankle Sprain

An ankle sprain is an injury to one or more ligaments in the ankle, usually on the outside of the ankle. Ligaments are bands of tissue—like rubber bands—that connect one bone to another and bind the joints together. In the ankle joint, ligaments provide stability by limiting side-to-side movement.

Some ankle sprains are much worse than others. The severity of an ankle sprain depends on whether the ligament is stretched, partially torn or completely torn, as well as on the number of ligaments involved. Ankle sprains are not the same as strains, which affect muscles rather than ligaments.



A sprained ankle is often caused by rolling the ankle during sports, hiking or other physical activity.

Ankle pain is often due to an ankle sprain, but can also be caused by ankle instability, arthritis, gout, tendonitis, fracture, nerve compression (tarsal tunnel syndrome), infection or poor structural alignment of the leg or foot. Ankle pain can be associated with swelling, stiffness, redness and warmth in the area. The pain is often described as an intense, dull ache that occurs during weight-bearing activities and ankle motion.

Initial treatment may consist of rest, ice, elevation and immobilization, but may also include nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, and physical therapy and cortisone injection.



For more information on ankle pain, see these foot and ankle conditions:
• Achilles tendonitis
• Ankle fracture
• Ankle sprain
• Gout
• Osteoarthritis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome (nerve compression)

Dr. Hopkins is a Board Certified Podiatrist specializing in foot trauma and fracture care, podiatric surgery, sports medicine, wound care, and regenerative medicine. He works in the hospital on all foot traumas, as well as in his community clinic prescribing orthotics to help peoples feet, performing nail surgery, sports medicine and injury, and diabetic care. 

"I am excited to be able to help build a program in partnership with Palmdale Regional Medical Center. We are creating a specific goal in preventing amputations and offering hope combined with cutting edge technology to prevent amputations or hospitalizations. Our goal is to provide improved limb preservation to everyone in the Antelope Valley" Said Dr. Kyle Hopkins.

Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?

No, you can self-refer to any of our podiatrists. However, your insurance carrier may require a referral before covering appointments and treatments. Check with your insurance company to understand your specific benefits.

Dr. Hopkins practices at 42135 10th St West, STE 101, Lancaster, CA 93534 or at 26357 McBean pkwy, STE 255, Santa Clarita, CA 91355.

To learn more about what your local podiatrist Dr. Kyle Hopkins can offer, click on the following www.avorsmedgroup.com/foot-and-ankle-specialists

To learn more about Dr. Kyle Hopkins, click on the following www.avorsmedgroup.com/Kyle-Hopkins

Call us at 661-726-5005 to schedule a consultation!