Do You Need Physiotherapy for a Sprained Ankle?
Ankle sprains are one of the most common sporting injuries seen in physiotherapy. They can occur during both contact and non-contact activities, often when landing awkwardly, changing direction, or stepping on uneven ground.
While many people assume an ankle sprain will “just heal on its own”, research shows that up to 70% of ankle sprains can result in ongoing instability or re-injury if not properly rehabilitated.
At Apex Physiotherapy Bicton, we assess, treat and guide recovery from ankle sprains to ensure full recovery and reduce the risk of recurrence.
What Happens When You Sprain Your Ankle?
The ankle is made up of two key joints:
- One joint allows the foot to move up and down
- The other controls side-to-side movement and stability
Most ankle sprains occur in the joint that controls inward and outward movement.
How the injury occurs
In a typical ankle sprain:
- The foot rolls inwards
- The ankle is often in a pointed position
- Ligaments on the outside of the ankle are stretched or torn
These ligaments are responsible for stabilising the joint and providing feedback to the brain about ankle position.
Why Are Ankle Ligaments Important?
Ankle ligaments do more than provide stability.
They also act as sensory receptors, helping your brain understand:
- Where your ankle is in space
- How your body is moving
- How to activate muscles for balance and control
This is essential for:
- Walking on uneven surfaces
- Running
- Jumping and landing
- Sport performance
When ligaments are injured, this feedback system is disrupted, increasing the risk of re-injury.
Symptoms of a Sprained Ankle
Common symptoms include:
- Pain on the outside of the ankle
- Swelling and bruising
- Difficulty walking or weight bearing
- Feeling of instability or “giving way”
- Stiffness and reduced movement
- Pain with twisting or turning
How Serious is a Sprained Ankle?
Most ankle sprains are ligament injuries and heal within 4–6 weeks, depending on severity.
However, without proper rehabilitation, ongoing issues may include:
- Chronic ankle instability
- Repeated sprains
- Persistent pain or swelling
- Reduced sporting performance
This is why physiotherapy is strongly recommended.
How Physiotherapy Helps a Sprained Ankle
Physiotherapy focuses on three key stages of recovery:
1. Early Stage: Pain and Swelling Control
Treatment may include:
- Soft tissue therapy
- Joint mobilisation
- Taping or bracing support
- Gentle range of motion exercises
- Load management advice
Goal: reduce pain and restore normal walking.
2. Middle Stage: Restore Movement and Strength
Once swelling improves, rehabilitation focuses on:
- Restoring full ankle mobility
- Strengthening calf and ankle muscles
- Improving balance and stability
- Rebuilding normal movement patterns
3. Late Stage: Return to Sport
This phase ensures the ankle is ready for full activity.
Exercises may include:
- Single-leg balance training
- Hopping and jumping drills
- Agility and change-of-direction training
- Sport-specific loading
Return to sport is only advised when strength, balance and control are restored.
Simple Return-to-Sport Tests
Before returning to sport, your physiotherapist may assess:
Knee-to-wall test
Checks ankle mobility compared to the other side.
Single-leg heel raises
You should be able to complete around 25 controlled repetitions.
Single-leg hop test
Hop distance and control should be similar between both legs.
Step hop test
Hop up and down a step with confidence and control.
If these tests cannot be completed properly, further rehabilitation is required.
Can I Walk on a Sprained Ankle?
In most cases, yes — but it depends on severity.
You may be advised to:
- Reduce walking initially
- Use support if required
- Gradually increase load as pain allows
Early controlled movement is important for recovery.
When Should I See a Physiotherapist?
You should seek assessment if you have:
- Significant swelling or bruising
- Difficulty walking normally
- Repeated ankle sprains
- Ongoing pain after injury
- Feeling of ankle instability
Sprained Ankle Treatment in Bicton
At Apex Physiotherapy Bicton, we provide structured rehabilitation for ankle sprains to ensure full recovery and reduce the risk of long-term instability.
Our approach focuses on:
- Accurate diagnosis
- Pain and swelling reduction
- Strength and stability restoration
- Safe return to sport or activity
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need physio for a sprained ankle?
Yes. Physiotherapy helps restore strength, balance and stability and reduces the risk of re-injury.
How long does a sprained ankle take to heal?
Most ankle sprains recover in 4–6 weeks, depending on severity and rehabilitation.
Can I ignore a sprained ankle?
No. Without rehab, ankle sprains have a high risk of recurrence and long-term instability.
When can I return to sport after a sprained ankle?
Only when strength, balance and hop testing are equal to the uninjured side.
Is walking good for a sprained ankle?
Yes, once pain allows. Gradual loading helps recovery.
