Ankle sprains are usually considered minor injuries, but in some cases, they can be serious enough to affect your ability to work or carry out daily tasks. When the injury is severe, the recovery time is longer, and the risk of long-term issues is higher. Some people may wonder whether a sprain like this can qualify for disability. An ankle sprains doctor can help strengthen your case should you need to pursue disability.
How Severe Ankle Sprains Are Different
A mild ankle sprain may only involve stretched ligaments, but a more serious sprain often means full tears or damage to multiple ligaments. In some cases, nearby tendons or bones are affected as well. These injuries can lead to chronic instability, pain while walking, and reduced range of motion. In cases where the injury doesn’t heal properly or there are repetitive injuries, a person may never regain normal function, which can affect their ability to work.
Work Limitations That Can Lead To A Disability Claim
If your job involves standing, lifting, walking, or other physical activity, a serious ankle injury can prevent you from performing your duties safely. For someone whose work depends on physical movement—such as a nurse, warehouse employee, delivery driver, or construction worker—this type of injury can make it difficult or impossible to return to the same role. When a doctor confirms that these limitations are likely to last for several months or longer, it may be possible to qualify for short-term or long-term disability benefits. Disability attorneys can help you through this process.
Medical Documentation Is Key
Whether you’re applying for disability through your employer, insurance provider, or a government program, your case depends heavily on the records from your doctor. Medical evaluations, imaging reports, treatment notes, and written statements about your functional limits all contribute to how a claim is reviewed.
A podiatrist or orthopedic provider must show that your ankle injury has significantly limited your movement, balance, and ability to carry out job-related tasks. Doctors like those at SoCal Sports Podiatry often help patients with this type of documentation, especially when recovery is taking longer than expected.
When A Lawyer Might Get Involved
In some situations, legal support becomes necessary—especially if a disability claim is denied or if the ankle sprain happened on the job. Workers’ compensation claims often rely on clear medical reports, and delays in diagnosis or inconsistent records can make the process harder. Attorneys and qualified doctors can often work together to help illustrate that a person needs workers’ compensation.
What To Consider Before Filing For Disability
Before applying for disability, it’s helpful to speak with both your medical provider and your employer’s HR department. They can explain the short-term disability process and let you know what records are needed. If the ankle injury is expected to keep you out of work for more than a few weeks and there’s no clear timeline for recovery, a disability claim may be appropriate. Our friends at SoCal Sports Podiatry are well-equipped to evaluate any ankle sprain or injury. Call a doctor or disability attorney today!