What is it? An ankle is sprained when the ligaments surrounding the ankle joint become over-stretched and can tear.
Common Cause: The most common cause of a sprained ankle injury is when the foot is turned inwards, over stretching the outside of the ankle. This is sometimes accompanied by a snapping or popping sound.
Common Symptoms: Pain reducing mobility with swelling on the outside of the ankle bruising is usually visible. Occasionally when the ankle turns outwards, over-stretching occurs of the inside ankle ligaments, swelling and bruising will then be evident on the inside of the ankle.
How can Physiotherapy help? Physiotherapy can promote the torn ligament fibres to heal in a properly aligned manor. It can help restore pain free movement and regain the muscles strength lost since injury. Through training improvements in balance and co-ordination help reduce the risk of further injury.
What to expect during treatment: Electrotherapy is often used in the early stages of an ankle sprain to reduce the inflammation and clear away any bruising. Range of movement exercises and mobilisation of the joints around the ankle to restore lost mobility. Strengthening and balance exercises and rehabilitation back to full function.
What can you do for yourself? Rest, ice, compress and elevate the ankle immediately after injury and do this at regular intervals for around 4-7 days and seek advice from a physiotherapist.
