Treatments Classes

Ankle Sprain

Ankle sprains are very common, especially in sports people. The ligaments on the outer side of the ankle are most commonly injured, typically from the foot turning inwards while the ankle rolls out, stretching the ligaments. This can happen during a rapid change of direction and shift of bodyweight. The less common mechanism of injury is the ankle rolling inwards which would stretch the ligaments on the inside of the ankle. Poor rehabilitation after an initial ankle sprain can increase the likeliness of reoccurrence. There are three grades of ankle sprain: 1 - microscopic tears in the ligament tissue. 2 - A tear to portion of the tissue with associated stretching of the ligament. 3 – complete rupture of the ligament.

Visit our Specialist Clinic

Here you can see more information, specialist practitioners and linked conditions.

Book Now

Symptoms

1. Pain on the inside or outside of the ankle joint
2. Swelling and tenderness around the affected side of the ankle
3. Unable to fully weight bear on the ankle
4. Injury mechanism that involved rolling the ankle and a history of ankle injuries
5. Pain when inverting the foot suggests the outside ligaments have been sprained while pain everting the foot suggests the inside ligaments have been sprained.

Treatments

A first time, grade 1 ankle sprain can heal quickly and therefore requires minimal input. Taping the ankle can provide stability and reduce swelling. Once the initial inflammation stage has settled it is important to regain movement and strength as quickly as your symptoms allow. Active movements of your ankle in all directions will improve the range of movement and decrease swelling. Additionally manual mobilisations of the ankle in the early stages heave been found to improve mobility. As the injury heals, a combination of strengthening, mobility and balance work can begin which will be progressed based on the stability of the ankle. This should be progressed to continue challenging the coordination and proprioception of the ankle until it is at pre injury levels of strength, mobility, balance and coordination.
Next... Calf Strain