Have you ever “rolled” or “sprained” your ankle during a sporting activity or misplacing a step whilst walking?. Have these sprains taken longer to recover than expected?
Ankle sprains are one of the most common lower limb injuries and can occur in sports that involve rapid changes of direction such as basketball, volleyball, netball and football.
What structures are damaged during an ankle sprain?.
They usually occur when the ankle rolls outwards, this can typically damage 2 ligaments.
- Anterior talo-fibular ligament (ATFL) ** most common
- Calcano-fibular ligament (CFL)
Signs and Symptoms
- Loud snap, crack or tearing sensation
- Swelling with or without bruising
- Can walk – but often with a limp
- Pain with movements such as pointing the toes or turning your foot inwards
- Tenderness over the injured site
What can treatment include?
It is important to contact your physiotherapist early!
Without adequate rehabilitate a minor ankle injury can lead to further complications.
Treatment Includes:
- Increasing ankle movement
- Muscle strengthening
- Improving proprioception and balance
- Relieving tight or overactive muscles
- Strapping and/or bracing
- Education and advice
- Specific return to sport rehabilitation
If you are experiencing ankle pain or someone who has repetitively rolled your ankle, we’d love to help!
Please call us on 9878 5021 today!