Ankle Sprain

Ankle Sprain. What is it?

An ankle sprain is a common injury that occurs when the ankle rolls inwards and causes an overstretching and possible tear of the ligaments that support the ankle.

How does it happen?

This can happen as a result of contact in sports, landing from a jump, quickly changing directions, or moving on unstable surfaces. The severity of the injury will depend on how much damage the ligaments sustain.

What you could feel

You may notice immediate swelling of the ankle, pain on both sides of the ankle, instability, reduced ankle range of motion, and bruising. It is important in this early stage to reduce swelling which has positive effects on recovery and ankle mobility. The communication between the ankle and the brain is also compromised due to the trauma and will require rehab to re-establish this connection and reduce recurrent ankle sprains.

What to do next?

Firstly, it is important to rule out a possible fracture of the ankle through an X-ray which should be done IF there is an inability to weight bear 4 steps immediately after the incident and the presence of bony tenderness – the likelihood of a fracture, if you are able to bear weight immediately is low.

PEACE and LOVE is the new pneumonic that facilitates an active recovery

Protection from aggravating activities, taping by your physio

Elevation of ankle above heart level as often as possible

Avoid Anti-inflammatories and icing as they can reduce tissue healing

Compression to reduce swelling

Education – facilitated by a physiotherapist

Load ankle as tolerable

Optimism – be confident and positive!

Vascularisation – low impact exercises (e.g. cycling) to improve nutrient delivery from increased blood flow

Exercise – regain mobility, strength, and proprioception

Top Tips for Ankle Sprains

How can physiotherapy help?

A physiotherapist is able to diagnose and assess the severity of your injury, assist with acute management of pain and swelling and address any other concerns. The provision of an individualised program to facilitate your return to functional activities, sports, and/or life in the short and long term is also a key part of our treatment.

Our goal is to provide you with the most up to date evidence-based treatment and reduce the likelihood of subsequent sprains so that you can stay injury-free and participate at your best for a longer:

• Calf raise progression
• Lateral hops
• Balance
• Ankle mobility

As always feel free to message us, email or book in online at 1 of our 5 locations in Sydney;