Why Ankle Injuries From Skiing Often Feel Mild at First

And Why Symptoms Can Worsen Days Later

Many skiers walk away from a fall feeling lucky. The ankle might be sore, slightly swollen, or stiff, but not painful enough to end the day. Unfortunately, this is exactly how many significant ankle injuries begin. What feels mild at first can worsen days later, once swelling increases and injured tissues begin to declare themselves.

At Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery, foot and ankle injuries are one of the most common issues evaluated during ski season. Understanding why ankle injuries can feel deceptively mild early on can help skiers seek care before long term problems develop.

Key Takeaways

• Ski boots can mask early ankle pain after a fall.

• Swelling and inflammation often peak days after injury.

• Ligament and cartilage injuries may not hurt immediately.

• Continuing to ski can worsen hidden ankle damage.

• Early evaluation improves recovery and return to activity.

Why Ski Ankle Injuries Are Often Misleading Early On

Skiing places unique forces on the ankle. The combination of speed, rigid boots, bindings, and variable terrain can produce significant injury even without immediate pain.

According to Dr. John Paul Elton, foot and ankle specialist at VSON, “Many ski related ankle injuries initially feel manageable because the boot provides external support. Once that support is removed, swelling and pain often increase.”

Ski Boots Act Like a Temporary Brace

Modern ski boots are stiff and supportive by design. After a fall, the boot can limit motion and temporarily stabilize the ankle, reducing pain signals. Once the boot comes off and normal walking resumes, swelling increases and injured tissues are no longer protected.

This is why many skiers feel significantly worse later that evening or the following morning.

Inflammation Peaks After the Injury

Soft tissue injuries rarely reach peak swelling immediately. Inflammation continues to build over the first 48 to 72 hours after trauma.

As swelling increases, pressure inside the joint rises, leading to:

• Increased pain

• Reduced range of motion

• Stiffness and limping

• Difficulty bearing weight

What felt like a mild tweak can become much more limiting several days later.

Ligament and Cartilage Injuries May Not Hurt Right Away

Ankle sprains, tendon injuries, and cartilage damage often do not produce severe pain at the moment of injury. Adrenaline and cold temperatures can further dull symptoms on the mountain.

Dr. Elton explains, “Cartilage injuries and certain ligament tears can be easy to miss early. Pain often appears later when the joint becomes inflamed and unstable.”

Continuing to Ski Can Worsen the Injury

Many skiers continue skiing because the ankle feels stable inside the boot. Unfortunately, repeated stress can worsen ligament damage or convert a partial injury into a complete tear.

Common delayed diagnoses include:

• High ankle sprains

• Peroneal tendon injuries

• Osteochondral lesions of the ankle

• Subtle fractures

Early rest and evaluation can prevent prolonged recovery.

How Ankle Injuries Are Evaluated at VSON

At Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery, evaluation includes a focused exam and imaging when appropriate. Identifying the specific structure involved allows for targeted treatment rather than guesswork.

Treatment may include:

• Temporary immobilization or bracing

• Activity modification

• Physical therapy

• Advanced imaging for cartilage or tendon injuries

• Surgical intervention when necessary

Dr. Elton specializes in helping active patients return to skiing, hiking, and mountain sports safely and confidently.

When to Seek Evaluation

You should schedule an evaluation if ankle symptoms include:

• Pain that worsens over several days

• Persistent swelling or stiffness

• Difficulty walking without a limp

• A feeling of instability or catching

• Pain deep inside the ankle joint

Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes and reduces the risk of chronic ankle problems.

The Bottom Line

Ankle injuries from skiing often feel mild at first because boots provide support and inflammation takes time to develop. Unfortunately, delayed pain can signal a more serious problem beneath the surface. Early evaluation by a foot and ankle specialist can prevent long term instability, cartilage damage, and prolonged time away from the mountain.

Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurosurgery is committed to helping skiers stay active with expert diagnosis, personalized treatment, and clear guidance for recovery. Contact us today!