The sprained ankle is the most common type of athletic injury, with research suggesting that ankle sprains account for 15-30% of all sports injuries, it is also the most frequently re-injured. Although it is a widespread sporting injury, it regularly occurs during every day activities.
Without proper treatment for an ankle sprain, there can be long-term negative effects such as chronic instability, decreased range of motion and pain. Studies show that up to 80% of people who sprain an ankle will re-sprain it and this is normally due to inadequate rehabilitation.
It important to consider the following various factors that may have caused the injury in the first place. These factors may include:
– Poor foot/ankle mechanics, i.e a stiff ankle joint will tend to make the ligaments work harder
– Poor footwear
– Joint restrictions and muscle tightness in the lumbo-pelvic region and/or lower limb
– A leg length discrepancy which may be overloading one particular ankle
It is important check in with your Osteopath for diagnosis of your ankle pain. Appropriate Osteopathy intervention and rehabilitation can be essential to help reduce pain, increase range of motion as well as minimise the risk of future reoccurring sprains. A session with an Osteopath will include taking a thorough history and examination before arriving at a diagnosis. The formation of an action plan will follow and include the determination of further investigation and conservative manual treatment.
Treatment may include the following:
– Advice regarding RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression,Elevation)
– Soft tissue massage
– Joint mobilisation
– Range of motion (ROM) exercises
– Strength training
– Gait training
– Balance/Proprioceptive training
– Taping
– Activity modification advice
– Return to activity program
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If you would like to book an appointment with one of our Osteopaths, you can call the clinic on 9908 2844 or book online here.