Understanding ankle sprains
A sprain involves overstretching or tearing the ligaments that stabilise the ankle, most commonly on the outside after the foot rolls inwards. The swelling and bruising settle fairly quickly, which creates a false impression that the job is done.
What takes longer to recover is the ankle's sense of its own position, along with the strength and reflexes that stop it rolling again. Skipping that stage is the main reason sprains recur.
Signs you might notice
- Swelling and bruising after a twisting injury
- Pain on the outside of the ankle when weight bearing
- A feeling of instability or the ankle giving way
- Reduced confidence on uneven ground
- Stiffness that lingers well after the swelling settles
Common contributing factors
- Sport involving changes of direction
- Uneven surfaces or a missed kerb
- Previous sprains that were never fully rehabilitated
- Reduced balance and ankle strength
- Footwear offering little stability
How we assess and treat it
We assess the ligaments, the joint's movement and, importantly, your balance and control on that leg compared with the other. Gait analysis often reveals a protective pattern that has persisted long after the injury healed.
Rehabilitation restores movement first, then strength, then the reactive control that genuinely prevents the next sprain.
- Hands-on treatment to restore ankle joint movement
- Progressive strengthening for the ankle and lower limb
- Balance and proprioception retraining
- Return to sport programme with clear milestones
- Assessment for any lasting change in gait
Common questions
How soon can I return to sport?
It depends on the grade of sprain and how your control tests out, not simply on time passed. We use clear physical milestones rather than counting weeks.
Why does my ankle keep giving way?
Almost always because the strength and balance side of rehabilitation was never completed. It is very treatable, even years later.
Do I need an X-ray?
Only if the examination suggests a possible fracture. We will tell you clearly if we think imaging is needed and arrange the right referral.