Ankle Sprain

What is an ankle sprain?

An ankle sprain is caused by excessively rolling the ankle in or out. This usually occurs quickly in a fast paced movement. Sports such as Basketball, Tennis and Netball have higher rates of ankle sprains. This is likely due to the sudden stop/start movements and pivoting.

What are the symptoms of an ankle sprain?

Pain, swelling and difficulty walking occur after an ankle sprain. Sometimes these symptoms will be mild while other times they will be severe; this will be dependent on the extent of damage to the ligaments, surrounding muscle and bone.

Diagnosis and treatment of an ankle sprain

Our Podiatry team are able to help you through the process of diagnosing your injury, making a treatment plan that is targeted towards your goals and helping you until those goals are reached. Our Podiatrists use the following to help diagnose and treat your injury:

Imaging (If needed)

– Bulk Billed X-rays and Ultrasounds

– MRI/CT Scans

Assessing the Cause:

– Video assessment of your running and walking patterns

– Assessing your footwear

– Assessing your hip and core strength

– Assessing your lower leg joints, strength and movement

– Assessing your risk factors (reasons why you have this injury)

Treatment

– We give you a rehabilitation program suited for only you

– We provide a Strengthening/Stretching/Balance program

– Give you a return to activity plan

– Modify your risk factors

– Improve your running and training techniques

– Work closely with your coach/exercise physiologist/phyio/other allied health team member to help you reach your goals

– Plaster Casting (non-displaced fractures)

– CAM Walker/Moon Boot (for tears and fractures)

– Strapping/Braces

– Sport compression

– Orthotics to help align and reduce risk of re-injury