ANKLE SPRAIN
What is an Ankle Sprain?
Ankle Sprains are one of the most common sporting injuries. A sprain is the tearing of the ligament/s that connect the ankle bones together. Following a sprain, the ankle joint may become unstable as the main job of a ligament is to stabilise the joint. Due to a lack of blood flow they may take a long time to recover. Most ankle sprains heal within 2-6 weeks; however severe sprains may take as long as 12 weeks.
Symptoms of Ankle Sprain
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Bruising
- Pain
- Inability to put weight on the affected ankle
- Skin discoloration
- Stiffness
Causes for Ankle Sprain
- Previous or existing ankle injury if poorly rehabilitated (biggest risk factor)
- Lack of strength and stability to ankle
- Sports requiring jumping, turning and twisting movements eg. Netball
- Lack of or extreme flexibility
- Poor balance
- Sudden change in direction
- Inappropriate footwear
- Inadequate warm up or playing surface
- Foot deformity
- High arches
- Hypermobility
When to see a podiatrist?
A prompt medical attention is always needed for the following reasons:
- An untreated ankle sprain may lead to chronic ankle instability.
- A more severe ankle injury may have occurred along with the sprain.
- An ankle sprain may be accompanied by a foot injury that causes discomfort but has gone unnoticed thus far.
- Rehabilitation of a sprained ankle needs to begin right away in order to heal properly.
Treatments for Ankle Sprain
- Early physical therapy. Your podiatrist will start you on a rehabilitation program as soon as possible to promote healing and increase your range of motion. This includes doing prescribed exercises.
- Custom orthotics may be needed to offload structure and reduce risk of reoocurence
- Dry needling
- Massage and hands on
- Strength Programme
- Referral to Exercise physiologist for sport specific exercise at the end of you rehab phase.
Is the treatment for Ankle Sprain covered by Private Health Insurances?
Call us to find out whether Ankle Sprain treatment is covered by your private health care provider. There are a few things to consider with your private health fund such as your level of cover, your policy waiting periods, annual limits and fund rules. It is important to know what you are up for prior to your visits to avoid unwanted, expensive surprises.