Monsoon rains can increase the risk of slips and falls because wet floors, slippery roads and uneven surfaces make it easier to lose balance. A twisted ankle may initially appear to be a minor injury, but the damage can range from a mild ligament strain to a more serious tear or fracture. Ignoring persistent pain or swelling and returning to normal activities too quickly can delay recovery and increase the risk of reinjury.

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments supporting the joint are stretched or torn, often when the foot suddenly rolls or turns during a fall. Pain, swelling and difficulty walking can occur with both sprains and fractures, so the severity of symptoms should not be used to diagnose the injury at home. Severe pain, significant swelling, visible deformity, tenderness over a bone or an inability to bear weight can indicate a possible fracture and require medical evaluation.

For a mild injury, protect the ankle from further strain and rest from activities that make the pain worse. A cold pack wrapped in a cloth can be applied for short periods to help manage swelling, while elevating the injured leg may also provide relief. Ice should not be placed directly on the skin, and forceful massage or stretching should be avoided immediately after an injury, especially when pain or swelling is significant.

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Some ankle sprains involve the ligaments on the outer side of the joint, including the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) and calcaneofibular ligament (CFL). These injuries may not be visible on an X-ray, meaning a normal X-ray does not necessarily rule out significant ligament damage. If pain or swelling continues, particularly around the outer ankle, a doctor may recommend further assessment and, when clinically appropriate, an MRI to evaluate soft-tissue damage.

Whether a person can walk after an ankle twist depends on the severity of the injury. Some mild sprains allow weight-bearing with manageable discomfort, while more serious injuries may require temporary support or reduced weight-bearing. Walking through significant pain should be avoided. Persistent or worsening symptoms, numbness, marked swelling, inability to bear weight or an obvious deformity are reasons to seek prompt medical attention.

Proper rehabilitation is also important after an ankle sprain. Once initial pain and swelling have settled, recovery may involve exercises to restore movement, strength, balance and stability. Returning to sports or strenuous activity too soon can increase the risk of another injury, particularly in people with a history of repeated ankle sprains. During the monsoon, wearing footwear with good grip, using handrails, keeping indoor floors dry and taking care around potholes and uneven surfaces can also help reduce the risk of ankle injuries.

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