How long after an ankle sprain can I resume driving and prolonged standing?

Return to Driving and Prolonged Standing After Ankle Sprain

After an ankle sprain, you should wait 3-4 weeks for mild sprains (distortions) or 6-8 weeks for more severe sprains (partial or total ligament ruptures) before resuming prolonged standing and driving activities. 1

Timeline for Return to Activities Based on Severity

Mild Ankle Sprain (Distortion)

• Return to light work/activities: 2 weeks 1
• Return to driving and prolonged standing: 3-4 weeks 1
• Restrictions during recovery: Mostly sitting work, no lifting over 10 kg, limited standing/walking on uneven surfaces 1

Severe Ankle Sprain (Partial or Total Ligament Rupture)

• Return to light work/activities: 3-6 weeks 1
• Return to driving and prolonged standing: 6-8 weeks 1
• Restrictions during recovery: Mostly sitting work, no lifting over 10 kg, limited standing/walking on uneven surfaces 1

Recommended Management During Recovery

Functional Support

• Use functional support (preferably a brace) for 4-6 weeks rather than immobilization 1
• Workers who use a semi-rigid ankle brace resume work faster than those using elastic bandages (4.2 days sooner) 1, 2
• External supports like braces or tape reduce the risk of recurrent injuries 1

Exercise Therapy

• Begin balance and coordination training early in recovery to prevent recurrent injuries 1
• Early therapeutic exercise improves outcomes and allows earlier return to function 3, 4
• Incorporate proprioceptive training to reduce risk of recurrent sprains 3, 5

Driving Considerations

• Before resuming driving, ensure you have:
  • Adequate ankle range of motion for pedal operation 5
  • Sufficient strength to control pedals 3
  • No pain that would distract from driving or impair reaction time 3

Prolonged Standing Considerations

• Gradually increase standing time as pain and swelling decrease 3
• Use appropriate footwear - though no specific type has proven superior for preventing recurrence 1
• Consider using a brace when first returning to prolonged standing activities 1

Warning Signs to Delay Return

• Persistent pain beyond expected timeline may indicate inadequate rehabilitation or complications 6
• Deficits in foot proprioception and balance can persist even a year after injury 5
• Inability to perform single-leg stance or functional movements without pain 5, 7

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Returning to activities too early increases risk of re-injury and chronic instability 7
• Inadequate rehabilitation before resuming full activities 6, 7
• Discontinuing use of supportive devices too quickly 1
• Neglecting proprioceptive and balance training during recovery 3, 5

Remember that pain typically decreases rapidly during the first 2 weeks after injury, but this doesn't mean the ankle has fully healed. Following the recommended timeline will help ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of chronic ankle problems 3.