Ankle Sprains
What is it?
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Ankle sprains are injuries involving the ligaments of the ankle.
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The most common injury resulting in an ankle sprain is rolling over your ankle where the foot turns inward. However, the ligaments of the ankle can also be injured through other mechanisms of injury.
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Most ankle sprains will resolve naturally within a few days. If you are unable to weight bear on your ankle following an ankle sprain it is important to see a heath professional.
Typical Symptoms/features:
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Swelling and/or bruising to the ankle.
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Pain with weight bearing.
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Painful to touch.
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Pain when moving the ankle.
Management:
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Activity modification
- When you first start noticing ankle pain, it may help to reduce your activity for a short amount of time to allow the pain to settle.
- However, there is strong evidence that says keeping active and slowly returning to your normal levels of activity can actually help the pain to settle quicker.
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Ice or heat.
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Pain relief.
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Physiotherapy including range of movement exercises and a graded strengthening programme.
Do I need imaging?
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Imaging (X-rays or scans) is rarely required to diagnose ankle sprains.
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X-rays and scans are most appropriately used after a serious injury.
