Ankle Sprain Rehabilitation Protocols
5 Ankle Sprain rehabilitation protocols from 5 institutions, published 2019–2024. Weight-bearing progressions vary by institution — compare them in the table below before selecting a protocol.
Compare by institution
| Institution | Weight-Bearing | Key Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| iOrtho — Non-Operative Management | WBAT from day 1 with brace/tape; immobilization recommended for 10 days for severe sprain | Brace or protective tape during WB activities; immobilization up to 10 days for severe sprain; 25 single leg… |
| Massachusetts General Hospital — Lateral Ankle Sprain… | WBAT with brace/protective tape for WB activities; immobilization x 10 days for severe… | Brace or protective tape during all WB activities; Ottawa rule to rule out fracture; Grade I: 1-2 wks; Grade… |
| Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center — Chronic Ankle… | FWB; no acute WB restrictions; bracing/taping for functional activities | CAI defined as instability persisting >6 months post-sprain; no acute injury restrictions; no inversion or… |
| Sanford Health — Ankle Sprain (Non-Operative) | WBAT with assistive device as needed; progress to FWB as pain allows | Avoid activities that stress lateral/medial ligaments; taping, bracing, or orthotics recommended; avoid… |
| South Bend Orthopaedics — Lateral Ankle Sprain — Non-Operative | WBAT; crutches PRN; Grade I: crutches PRN + taping; Grade II: crutches until normal gait… | Grade I-IV sprain classification table with treatment and return-to-activity timelines; Grade IV (high… |
All 5 Ankle Sprain protocols
Ankle Sprain — Non-Operative Management
iOrtho
Ankle Sprain — Lateral Ankle Sprain — Non-Operative
Massachusetts General Hospital
Ankle Sprain — Chronic Ankle Instability (CAI) — Non-Operative
Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
Non-Operative — Ankle Sprain (Non-Operative)
Sanford Health
Ankle Sprain — Lateral Ankle Sprain — Non-Operative
South Bend Orthopaedics