Ankle Sprains: Recovery and Prevention with Physiotherapy

Ankle sprains are a common musculoskeletal injury experienced by people of all ages and activity levels. From a simple misstep to a sports-related twist, a sprained ankle can lead to pain, swelling, and limited mobility. If you’re looking to get back into any activity, it’s advisable to understand the nature of ankle sprains to minimise potential recurrences.

Understanding Ankle Sprains

The ankle joint[1] is formed by the connection of bones in the lower leg (tibia and fibula) with a bone in the foot (talus). These bones are held together by strong ligaments, which are bands of connective tissue that provide stability and limit excessive movement.

However, when these ligaments are stretched beyond their capacity or torn, it may result in a sprained ankle. This usually happens when the foot twists, rolls, or turns awkwardly, forcing the ankle joint out of its normal position.

Ankle sprains are classified into grades[2] based on the type and severity of ligament damage:

• Grade 1: Mild sprain with stretching of the ligament fibres but no tear. Symptoms may include mild pain, swelling, and tenderness.
• Grade 2: Moderate sprain with a partial tear of the ligament. Symptoms may include moderate pain, swelling, tenderness, and some instability.
• Grade 3: Severe sprain with a complete tear of the ligament. Symptoms may include severe pain, swelling, tenderness, and marked instability.

The Importance of Early Intervention

Early intervention is key to addressing ankle sprains and setting the stage for a smoother recovery. Seeking prompt care, especially from a licensed and qualified physiotherapist, can influence the healing process. Here’s why early intervention is recommended:

• To help minimise inflammation and pain
• To prevent chronic instability
• To improve the range of motion
• To accelerate the healing process

Early intervention with physiotherapy for ankle pain can also help you regain function sooner and reduce the risk of long-term problems.

Physiotherapy Treatment for Ankle Sprains

Physiotherapy offers a comprehensive and individualised approach to addressing ankle sprains. When you visit a physiotherapy centre in Singapore, a sports injury specialist will conduct a thorough assessment to determine the severity of your sprain and recommend a treatment plan.

Common physiotherapy approaches for ankle sprains[3] include:

• RICE Protocol: In the initial stages, the RICE protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) may help address pain and swelling.
• Manual Therapy: Hands-on methods like soft tissue mobilisation may help manage pain levels and improve joint movement.
• Exercise Therapy: A tailored exercise programme can help improve ankle function and prevent recurrence. This may include strengthening, range of motion exercises, and balance training to help improve ankle stability and minimise potential sprains in the future.
• Proprioceptive Training: This specialised training may help improve your ankle’s awareness of its position in space, enhancing balance and coordination.
• Taping and Bracing: Taping or bracing may provide support and stability during the healing process and return to activity.