Ankle Sprain

An ankle sprain is where one or more of the ligaments of the ankle are partially or completely torn. The ankle is formed by two leg bones (tibia and fibula) and one tarsal bone. All three bones are connected and stabilized with ligaments that provide support and strength to the ankle joint. An ankle sprain can be mild, moderate or severe. There is some degree of mobility in the mild to moderate ankle sprain with moderate pain and discomfort because the ankle joint is stable. However, in severe cases, the movement is minimal and painful due to instability of the ankle joint.

Characteristics/ clinical presentation

• Able to partial weight-bear only on the affected side.
• Difficulty walking 
• Tenderness, swelling and bruising can occur on either side of the ankle.
• Moderate to severe ankle pain that interferes with mobility

Risk factors for developing ankle sprain

• Previous history of ankle sprain
• Sex
• Height
• Weigh
• Limb dominance
• Postural sway
• Foot anatomy
• Shoe type
• Type of sport/activity 
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Physiotherapy Management

In the York-med physiotherapy our registered physiotherapist and chiropractors perform a thorough assessment to determine the extent of the tissue damage and the possible cause. They will work with you to set goals that include managing the acute swelling and pain, resolving the proper range of motion with hands-on manual therapy treatment, increasing strength and proprioception with exercises, and getting you back to your activity.

In the York-med Physiotherapy, we perform various techniques according to each patient’s need. We might offer a brace for the initial recovery period, apply therapeutic modalities such as ultrasound or acupuncture, perform the hands-on treatment and use specialized equipment such as a wobble board to retrain your ankle’s ability to respond to unstable surfaces. Most of all, they will provide you with guidance and reassurance of how best to proceed and help you achieve a speedy recovery.