While many might assume that something as seemingly minor as an ankle sprain poses little more than an insignificant inconvenience, there is growing evidence that ankle injuries (ranging from simple sprains to fractures) can present serious long-term consequences. It is important to bear in mind that injuries of the ankle, which is a major weight-bearing joint, can pose limitations that adversely affect quality of life, especially as we get older. According to recent research, even years after an ankle fracture, about 25% of patients rate their recovery as poor, and as many as two in three people who have injured their ankles have yet to recover three years after their injury. Twenty percent report long-term problems. Physical therapy can help.