Ankle Sprain Rehab
Ankle Injury Rehabilitation Explained
If you are in the unfortunate circumstance of needing your injured ankle rehabilitated due to a strain or sprain we have some tips for you. Obviously, the best line of care is to visit your local physiotherapist to have your injury examined in person, as some strains and sprains may be more significant than others. If you do wish to trial the below exercises and phases, you are doing so at your own risk. Some ankle sprains actually require an x-ray as significant injuries may result in a fracture.
Below you can see Kerry, a registered physiotherapist explaining the ankle recovery process.
Step 1 (Week 1)
PRICE
P= Protect
R= Rest
I= Ice
C= Compress
E= Elevate
Step 2 (Week 2-4)
Slowly begin strengthening of the ligaments, so long as it is pain-free.
You should still not be overdoing the load you are putting into your ankle at this point
Step 3 (Week 4-6)
Once cleared by your physio or another healthcare provider, you may begin some strength specific / sports specific exercises
All of the 3 steps above are based upon the assumption your sprain/ ankle injury is minor.
Should your injury be more significant you may not progress as quickly and your recovery may take up to 12 weeks. This is why it is important to have your health care provider take a subjective (verbal history from you) report and do an objective (hands-on) assessment of your injured area because everyone’s injury is different.
Should you find yourself needing a physiotherapist’s assessment of your ankle injury, do not hesitate to come in and see one of our physiotherapists. Each individual’s injury will be different and it is up to your physiotherapist to determine the best treatment plan for you. We wish you all the best!
