A sprained ankle gets described by grade, and the numbers can sound like a scoreboard. Here is what the grades mean in everyday words, for readers in and around Wood Dale.
What the grades describe
MedlinePlus says there are 3 grades of ankle sprains, and in grade 1 sprains your ligaments are stretched and there may be slight or microscopic tearing of the ligament tissues. Cleveland Clinic says healthcare providers grade ankle sprains based on their severity, and Grade 1 (mild) means the ligament is stretched enough to damage it, but isn't torn much.
Where to read the rest
Cleveland Clinic's sprained ankle page continues with the other types, and MedlinePlus groups strains and sprains on one page. A high ankle sprain and sprains in general each have their own Cleveland Clinic page.
When to stop and ask
A provider who examines the ankle assigns the grade. Do not try to grade your own ankle from reading, and if pain or swelling is not settling, book a visit.
A note for first-timers
Learning the grade names costs nothing, needs no training and gives you vocabulary for your appointment. That is plenty for a first sprain.