Physiotherapy For Sprained Ankle
Physiotherapy is a game-changer in managing sprained ankles, offering a holistic approach to not only speed up recovery with techniques like manual therapy and taping but also to enhance overall functionality and prevent future injuries.
Through tailored rehabilitation programs, it empowers individuals to bounce back stronger, ensuring that athletes and active individuals can return to their passion with confidence and stability.
Optimising Recovery: How Physiotherapy Manages Sprained Ankles
Physiotherapy plays an important role in the management of sprained ankle. Physiotherapy aims to reduce swelling, maintain and improve range of motion, reduce pain, provide support to maintain joint stability, improve functional activities and walking after a sprained ankle injury.
Physiotherapy treatment include manual therapy, taping, dry needling and functional rehabilitation program to assist the person to return to sports and normal functional activities and prevent chronic ankle instability to develop.
Lateral ankle sprains are the most common ankle injury where the body centre of mass shifts rapidly over the landing or weight-bearing foot. The injury is common in basketball players during running or landing from jumping. The ankle rolls outwards, whist the foot turns inward and stretch the lateral ligament causing tear in some occasions.
Poor rehabilitation after an initial sprained ankle injury is associated with increased incidents of recurrent injury.
Athletes who develop chronic ankle instability are likely to miss their training and competition, require ongoing treatment to stay physically active and show sub-optimal performance.
Physiotherapy To Strengthen Your Ankle After A Sprain
To assist with sprained ankle injury, it is important to start strengthening exercises prescribed by your physiotherapist. These exercises include calf muscles and other muscles connecting to the foot and toes to improve walking and functional activities.
Balance and motor coordination (proprioceptive) exercises are important to prevent recurrent sprained ankle injuries.