Hi, A sprained ankle typically takes 2 to 6 weeks to heal completely, depending on the severity. Since it s been a week for you, it sounds like you had a moderate to severe sprain. Some things to expect: • Swelling and bruising: This usually lasts 1-2 weeks. Elevation, ice, compression and ibuprofen can help reduce this. The swelling may move down towards your foot as it starts to resolve. • Pain: Sharp pain should subside in 1-2 weeks, but a dull ache may persist for 3-4 weeks. Ibuprofen and rest will help with pain management. • Numbness: Temporary numbness or tingling is common and can last 2-4 weeks. This is due to minor nerve irritation from the swelling. As the swelling resolves, sensation should return to normal. If numbness persists more than a month, see your doctor. • Walking: You should be able to walk short distances in 1-2 weeks, but it may take 4-6 weeks to walk normally without pain or limping. Physical therapy or bracing/taping can help in some cases. • Re-injury risk: The ankle remains unstable for 6-8 weeks after a severe sprain. Avoid any high impact activity, sports or excessive walking/standing during this time to prevent re-spraining the ankle. Some things you can do to help heal your sprained ankle: • Rest: Rest the ankle as much as possible. Limit walking and standing. • Ice: Apply ice for 15-20 minutes at a time, 3-4 times a day to reduce swelling. Do this for the first 1-2 weeks. • Compression: Wrap the ankle in a compression bandage or brace. This also helps minimize swelling. • Elevation: Raise your ankle above the level of your heart when sitting or lying down. This improves drainage and reduces fluid buildup. • Physical therapy: After 2 weeks, doing range-of-motion and strengthening exercises can help improve flexibility and stability. See a physical therapist for guidance on proper exercises. • Brace: Wearing an ankle brace or splint when walking can provide support and protect from re-injury. Use for 3-6 weeks after injury. • Ibuprofen: Take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory like ibuprofen to help with pain and swelling. Use for 1-2 weeks as directed. • See a doctor if: Pain is severe, swelling is severe, or if your ankle looks deformed or misaligned. You may need physical therapy, bracing, or in rare cases, surgery for a severe sprain. With rest, proper care and time, most sprained ankles will heal well. However, the ankle may remain prone to re-injury for several months. Be careful when resuming activity, and consider wearing an ankle brace for high-impact exercise. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Nikhil Aggarwal, General & Family Physician