October 23, 2024
Should I See a Physiotherapist After an Ankle Sprain or Roll?
Ankle sprains are a common injury, but they can be more severe than they initially appear. You may be unsure whether to seek help from a physiotherapist or simply rest and allow the injury to heal naturally. In this article, we’ll break down what occurs during an ankle sprain, how the severity of the injury is determined, and why consulting a physiotherapist is a key part of the recovery process.
What Happens When You Sprain or Roll Your Ankle?
An ankle sprain occurs when the foot twists, rolls, or turns awkwardly, often during activities like sports or even stepping off a curb. This sudden movement can cause the ligaments—strong tissues that support the ankle—to stretch or tear.
In most cases, the ankle rolls inward, damaging the ligaments on the outside of the joint. This accounts for about 85% of all ankle sprains. Less commonly, the ankle rolls outward, injuring the ligaments on the inner side, or involves a high ankle sprain, which affects the ligaments connecting the shin bones.
How Are Ankle Sprains Graded?
Ankle sprains are classified based on their severity:
Grade 1 (Mild): The ligaments are overstretched but not torn. You may experience mild swelling and discomfort, but walking remains possible.
Grade 2 (Moderate): This involves a partial ligament tear. Swelling, bruising, and pain are more intense, and walking becomes more difficult.
Grade 3 (Severe): A complete ligament tear leads to significant swelling, bruising, and instability. You may struggle to put any weight on the injured ankle.
Why See a Physiotherapist After an Ankle Sprain?
Rest and ice are often recommended after an ankle sprain, but without proper treatment, long-term issues may develop. Chronic ankle instability, ongoing pain, and frequent re-injury are common outcomes of untreated sprains, with up to 40% of individuals reporting persistent problems.
A physiotherapist plays a crucial role in recovery. They will create a personalised treatment plan, focusing on strengthening your ankle muscles, improving balance, and restoring your full range of motion. This professional guidance ensures you rehabilitate properly and don’t return to activity prematurely, reducing the risk of re-injury.
When Should You See a Physiotherapist After an Ankle Sprain?
It’s best to see a physiotherapist as soon as possible after the injury, especially if there’s significant pain, swelling, or difficulty walking. Early intervention can speed up your recovery and prevent complications. If the injury is severe or you’re unsure of its seriousness, a physiotherapist can accurately assess and recommend the right course of action.
Physiotherapy Treatment for an Ankle Sprain
Physiotherapy treatment for ankle sprains progresses through several phases:
Acute Phase: During this phase, your physiotherapist will assess the injury, possibly refer you for imaging if needed, and focus on reducing pain and swelling. Treatment may involve offloading the ankle, ice, compression, and gentle movement exercises.
Subacute Phase: As swelling and pain decrease, your physiotherapist will introduce strength and mobility exercises, such as ankle rotations, calf raises, and resistance band exercises.
Rehabilitation Phase: The focus shifts to restoring full function, including balance training, functional movement exercises, and specific drills to prepare you for returning to normal activities or sports.
Return to Activity: Your physiotherapist will guide you through a safe and gradual return to your usual activities, performing strength tests to ensure your ankle is stable and strong enough to prevent further injury.
How Long Does It Take to Heal?
Recovery time depends on the severity of your ankle sprain. A mild sprain may heal in a few days to a week, while a moderate sprain could take several weeks. Severe sprains may require months of rehabilitation. Following your physiotherapist’s advice and completing the rehabilitation program will aid in a full recovery and minimise the risk of future injuries.
By seeking help from a physiotherapist, you can ensure your ankle heals properly, allowing you to return to your usual activities without long-term issues.
Here’s a helpful YouTube video on how to recover faster from an ankle sprain to further understand treatment options.
Need Help with Your Ankle Sprain? Book an Appointment Today!
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