Ankle sprain
Ankle rehabilitation focuses on reducing pain and improving movement and stability so you can walk use stairs and return safely to exercise and activity. Physiotherapy is tailored to your symptoms and put emphasis on balance training and progressive strengthening to reduce the risk of recurrence especially after a sprain.
The ankle is a joint that takes a lot of pressure in daily life especially during walking stairs hills and sport. After a sprain or irritation you may experience pain stiffness swelling and reduced confidence when stepping and many people describe a sense of instability or fear of rolling it again. Walking mechanics can also change which may shift strain to the knee or hip.
Physiotherapy starts with an assessment of mobility strength balance and how you place weight through the foot. A plan is then built to reduce symptoms improve range of motion and restore stability. Balance and proprioception are a major focus because they are key for preventing another sprain. As tolerance improves more functional drills are added such as direction changes small hops and a gradual return to running or sport when that is your goal.
Ankle rehab is progressed in stages so confidence returns without increasing symptoms. Early on we reduce discomfort and swelling and restore gentle mobility so you can step more comfortably. Next we strengthen the calf and foot muscles and add balance drills to improve control. In the final stage we move into more dynamic work with direction changes and small hops and we plan a gradual return to running or sport when that is your goal.
