An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support your ankle are stretched or torn, most commonly after the foot rolls inward (inversion injury). The lateral ligaments on the outside of the ankle are the most frequently injured, particularly the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL).
Ligaments are strong bands of connective tissue that stabilise joints. When injured, they require appropriate loading and rehabilitation to heal effectively.
Common Symptoms
- Pain around the outside of the ankle
- Swelling and bruising
- Difficulty walking or weight bearing
- Tenderness when touching the ligaments
- Feeling of instability or the ankle “giving way”
- Reduced range of movement and stiffness
Grades of Ankle Sprains
Grade I (Mild)
- Ligament stretched with microscopic tearing
- Mild swelling and tenderness
- Little or no instability
- Recovery: 1-3 weeks
Grade II (Moderate)
- Partial ligament tear
- Moderate swelling and bruising
- Painful walking
- Some joint instability
- Recovery: 4-8 weeks
Grade III (Severe)
- Complete ligament rupture
- Significant swelling and bruising
- Marked instability
- Difficulty weight bearing
- Recovery: 8-12+ weeks
Why Physiotherapy is Important
Many people assume an ankle sprain will simply heal on its own. While pain often settles, without proper rehabilitation the ankle may remain weak and unstable, increasing the risk of future sprains.
Research shows that structured rehabilitation significantly reduces the chance of recurrent ankle injuries.
How Physiodynamics Can Help
Our physiotherapists will:
✓ Assess the severity of your injury
✓ Screen for fractures or injuries requiring referral
✓ Reduce pain and swelling
✓ Restore ankle mobility
✓ Improve strength and stability
✓ Retrain balance and proprioception
✓ Progress sport and work-specific rehabilitation
✓ Reduce your risk of re-injury
Treatment May Include
- Manual therapy
- Exercise prescription
- Strengthening programs
- Balance and proprioception training
- Sports taping or bracing advice
- Return-to-running and return-to-sport programs
- Education on optimal recovery
When Should You See a Physiotherapist?
Book an appointment if you have:
- Significant swelling
- Difficulty walking
- Repeated ankle sprains
- Persistent pain after several days
- Ongoing instability
- Difficulty returning to sport or work
Don’t Ignore an Ankle Sprain
A simple sprain today can become chronic ankle instability tomorrow.
Early assessment and the right rehabilitation can help you recover faster, regain confidence, and get back to doing what you enjoy.