Most people sprain there ankle at least once in their life. Around 25,000 people sprain there ankle each day. Sprains are usually stretched or torn ligaments and can be difficult to differentiate from a break without an x-ray.
You will generally be told to follow the “R.I.C.E.” guidelines. That is rest, ice, compress, and elevate. Ice and compression can help limit the swelling.
Here are three useful links for more information:
http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/sport-injuries/ankle-achilles-shin-pain/sprained-ankle
https://www.emedicinehealth.com/ankle_sprain/article_em.htm
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sprained_ankle
The rates of ankle sprains for males and females is almost identical, but teenagers tend to get ankle sprains more often than most.
An urgent care clinic may be a quicker and less expensive alternative to emergency rooms if you have injured your ankle.