Signs & Symptoms
Ankle injuries are very common, particularly in sports and activities such as soccer, basketball and dancing. The most common type of ankle injury is an inversion injury, where one rolls inwards on the foot damaging the lateral ligament complex.
Signs and symptoms depend on the severity of the injury, but may include pain in the ankle region, limping, swelling or bruising. The severity of an ankle injury can be classified as a Grade I, where only a few ligament fibres have been damaged; Grade II where a moderate amount of ligament fibres have been damaged; or Grade III where one or more ligaments have completely torn.
Our Treatment & Expertise
Following a thorough lower limb assessment to determine the type and severity of the injury, you will be advised whether you need to rest from certain activities or sports. You may need to use crutches for a period of time to allow the tissues to heal. The R.I.C.E (Rest, Ice Compression, and Elevation) protocol is used in the first 24-48 hours to reduce swelling and inflammation. Your physiotherapy treatment may also include electrotherapy, manual therapy and/or acupuncture to the foot and ankle joints. Additional techniques may include ankle strapping, taping or bracing to help stabilise the joint. Exercise is also an important part of your rehabilitation to promote tissue healing, prevent joint stiffness or recurrence. Your physiotherapist will guide you through a progressive exercise programme over a number of weeks until you have returned to full function and your regular activities pain-free.