Ankle Sprain

An ankle sprain is the stretching and tearing of ankle ligaments usually caused by rolling the ankle. The most common type is the inversion ankle sprain (lateral ankle sprain), in which the ankle rolls over on the outside. If the ankle sprain is severe, the tendons also get damaged. Ankle sprains are the most common injury to the ankle. Sprains can range from mild (grade 1) to severe (grade 3) where ankle ligaments are ruptured. They can result in long term consequences like chronic ankle pain, instability and weakness.

Ankle Sprain Symptoms

Bruising on the sides of the ankle
Swelling of the ankle joint
Pain when standing on the ankle
Pain when moving the ankle side-to-side
A loose feeling to the ankle joint, particularly if one side feels different to the other foot

Common causes of Ankle Sprain

Anything that makes the ankle ‘roll outwards’ – i.e. landing awkwardly, walking on uneven surfaces, twisting motions.
Poor rehabilitation of a previously sprained ankle.
Poor proprioception (the sense of where a joint is).
Weak ankle muscles
Hypermobility

Ankle Sprain Treatments

For mild to moderate sprains:

RICE: rest, ice, compression & elevation (icing 5 minutes on, 2 hours off, 15 minutes on), anti-inflammatory pain medication (e.g. ibuprofen) regularly for the first few days, then as needed.
Laser therapy to aid in early stage healing and comfort
Increase proprioception by conducting single leg exercises on uneven surfaces
If biomechanics is a contributory cause – orthotics.

For severe sprains:

Cast immobilisation
CAM Walker/Moon Boot
Potentially surgery

Chronic ankle sprain treatment:

Shockwave therapy is ideal to kickstart the healing process
Custom orthotics to control ankle motion, potentially a Ritchie Brace
Muscle and tendon rehabilitation program prescribed by a podiatrist

What can I do for Ankle Sprains?

See a podiatrist for assessment
Chose supportive footwear, particularly footwear which supports the side of your ankle
Incorporate ankle strengthening exercises into daily routine
Gradual return to sport with taping or bracing the ankle before sport once returned

Take the first step towards happy and healthy feet.

Ready to give your feet the care they deserve? Book your appointment online or call us and experience our expert podiatry services at any of our six clinic locations.

Call 1300 76 33 66