How do I tell which grade ankle sprain I have?

A grade 1 sprain causes minimal pain and swelling because it is only a ligamentous stretch. You should be able to walk after some rest. Comparatively, a grade 2 sprain causes more pain and swelling because there is an incomplete ligament tear. It will make walking more difficult and painful.

With grade 1 ankle sprain, there is mild tenderness, swelling, stiffness, and pain. However, movement is still possible because the ankle feels stable. With grade 2, foot movement occurs with great difficulty since pain, swelling and bruising are now moderate, and the ankle is unstable. With grade 3, pain is intense, and movement is not possible.