This is the most common injury sustained due to a twisting injury to the ankle. The ligaments on the outer side of the ankle are most commonly torn causing pain, swelling and difficulty in walking. RICE therapy-Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation forms the first line of management. X rays may be needed depending on the severity of the sprain. Most sprains heal within 3-6 weeks. Physical therapy in the form of ankle mobilisation, muscle strengthening and balancing exercises should always be done after the acute period. Improper care or neglect following an ankle sprain leads to persistent pain, giving way sensation, swelling and recurrent ankle sprains-the classical symptoms of instability. This is due to inadequate healing of ligaments or damage to ankle joint cartilage. Ankle instability may require bracing with orthotics(devices designed to redistribute the pressures across the foot and ankle) and muscle strengthening exercises in the initial period. Failure of conservative treatment requires surgical repair or reconstruction of damaged ligaments and tendons. Newer techniques in instability surgery help doctors to shorten the period of rehabilitation following ligament reconstruction surgeries.