Ankle sprains
An ankle sprain happens when the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched or torn, most often when the foot rolls inwards. Rest, ice, compression, elevation, strapping and the right exercises help the ankle recover. Fiona assesses every ankle sprain herself in an initial consultation from $100.
What an ankle sprain is
An ankle sprain is an injury to the ligaments that hold the ankle joint together. The most common type is a lateral ankle sprain, sometimes called an inversion sprain, where the foot turns inwards and damages the ligaments on the outside of the ankle. A sprain of the ligaments on the inside of the ankle, where the foot rolls outwards, is much rarer and usually needs significant force. Along with ligament damage, there may be damage to tendons, bone and other joint tissues, which is why a proper diagnosis matters.
Symptoms
How an ankle sprain feels depends on how badly the ligaments are damaged. Typical symptoms include:
- Pain around the ankle, often on the outside
- Swelling, which can be mild or severe
- Bruising in more significant sprains
- Stiffness in the ankle joint
- Difficulty walking or running
- Instability of the joint in more severe sprains
Causes and risk factors
Most ankle sprains happen when the foot turns inwards on an uneven surface, during sport, or when landing awkwardly. Playing sport on uneven ground, such as wet grass or sand, raises the risk of injury. A flat or pronated foot type can contribute to injuries of the feet, shins and knees. Worn-out shoes with broken-down midsoles and thin cushioning increase the risk as well.
Repeating the same injuries over many years is a further risk factor for the ankles. Taping the ankles before activity may help stabilise the joints and reduce how often injuries occur.
Treatment at the clinic
Fiona assesses and diagnoses every ankle sprain herself, starting with an initial consultation from $100. She can refer you for an X-ray, ultrasound or MRI when a fracture or other damage needs checking, and refer you back to your GP when needed. Treatment may include strapping and taping to support the ankle, plus a stretching and strengthening program to help the joint return to normal movement. Footwear advice is part of the consultation. A standard consultation is from $90.
DVA gold card holders pay no out-of-pocket costs, and Fiona sees NDIS, WorkCover and TAC patients.
Looking after it at home
For the first 72 hours after injury, use the RICE method. Rest, and move only within your limit of pain. Apply ice or a frozen gel pack wrapped in a damp towel for 20 minutes every two hours. Firmly bandage the entire ankle and lower shin to control swelling. Elevate your ankle higher than the level of your heart as much as possible.
Once the initial pain settles, gentle range of motion exercises such as ankle circles can help get the ankle moving again, and doing them with the leg elevated may reduce swelling. The calf muscles often tighten up to protect the joint after a sprain, so gentle calf stretches can help maintain movement. A wobble board or balance board forms part of rehabilitation for many ankle sprains.
When to see a podiatrist
You should see a podiatrist when ankle pain, swelling or bruising persists beyond a few days, or when walking stays difficult. Fiona can diagnose the sprain, check for related damage to tendons or bone, and refer you for an X-ray when a small fracture such as an avulsion fracture is suspected. Severe pain, severe swelling, extensive bruising or a joint that feels completely unstable are signs to see a doctor promptly, as a grade 3 sprain involves a total rupture of a ligament and may need more than podiatry care.
Questions
How do you treat a sprained ankle?
Early treatment is rest, ice, compression and elevation for the first 72 hours. After that, strapping, gentle movement exercises, calf stretches and balance work help the ankle recover. Fiona assesses each sprain and refers for imaging when a fracture is suspected.
Should I see a podiatrist for a rolled ankle?
Yes, when pain, swelling or difficulty walking continues. A rolled ankle can involve damage to ligaments, tendons or bone, and a proper diagnosis guides the right treatment. Fiona provides that assessment in an initial consultation from $100.
How long does a sprained ankle take to heal?
Healing time depends on the grade of the sprain, from mild stretching of the ligament to a complete rupture. Fiona can grade your sprain after examining the ankle and advise you on rehabilitation, but no set time applies to everyone.