Sprained Ankle? Why is it important to do your Physiotherapy!

Ankle sprains are an incredibly common injury with the majority of ankle sprains involving the lateral ligaments following an inversion injury.

An ankle sprain can involve any of the ligaments of the ankle depending on the mechanism of the ankle injury.

 Why is it important to seek physiotherapy following an ankle sprain?

A study by Smith et al 2021 revealed that less than 50% of people were seeking advice or treatment following ankle sprains and up to 33% of individuals would then result in chronic ankle instability and recurrent ankle sprains over the next year. Therefore, the simple rest, ice, compression and elevation method may not be enough in long-term management of an ankle sprain.

Focusing on biomechanics, we know the importance of having strong and stable ankles. If the lowest chain or support of our body is not sufficiently intact, this can then result in instability, malignment or postural changes in the rest of the body including the knees, hips, back or neck.

Seeking your physiotherapist early can reduce complications such as persistent pain, stiffness, recurrent ankle sprains or balance deficits. It is important to use the RICE method for the first 12-48 hours. Following this, a physiotherapist can prescribe you with specific range of motion exercises to regain your mobility and progressively improve your strength and function. Physiotherapy will also assist in the management of pain or swelling by applying manual lymphatic drainage massage, compression socks or taping as needed for the acute stage of injury.

Importantly, evidence shows that supervised exercise within the early stages of an ankle sprain can provide a faster return to sport, work and function compared to unsupervised exercise.

Therefore, effective management of an ankle sprain doesn’t only involve the RICE method but it is highly recommended that a robust rehabilitation program is vital in restoring full function and performance of the ankle.