What is it?
Although the ankle is well supported via multiple ligaments & tendons, ankle sprains are arguably the most common sports injury seen by sports physicians.
In particular, lateral ankle sprains make up the bulk of this injury and occur by ‘rolling out’ your foot.
This injury generally occurs in sports/activities that require rapid changes in direction such as; tennis, netball, basketball, soccer and football.
What are the symptoms?
If you have an ankle sprain, you may notice some of the following symptoms around your ankle:
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- Swelling
- Bruising
- Pain whilst walking
- Instability
- Poor balance
Why did I get it?
It is well known that lateral ankle sprains are generally the result of accidental injury or trauma.
There are however a number of risk factors that predispose individuals to the condition:
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- High arched feet
- Poor footwear
- Running style
- Biomechanical abnormalities
- Playing surface
- Muscles weakness
How is it diagnosed?
Ankle sprains can be diagnosed through a thorough examination by one of our highly trained Podiatrists. Depending on severity of symptoms, you may be referred for an ultrasound or x-ray to determine the grade of the injury and to rule out further issues (for example fractures).
How can I treat it?
The quickest path to being pain free is to pay a visit to your Podiatrist for them to help you develop a treatment plan.
Below are some treatment strategies which may be implemented by your Podiatrist:
- Immobilisation (strapping or moon boot)
- Rest
- Ice
- Restore range of motion via mobilisation
- Restrengthening muscles surrounding the ankle
- Custom orthotics to decrease the risk of reinjury
- Footwear advice
- Exercise prescription to gradually return to activity
Need help to resolve your ankle sprain?
Book your appointment with one of our podiatrists now!
