Ankle Injuries

Sprains to the ankle are one of the most common sporting injuries. A sprain is defined as a tearing of the ligaments that connect bone to bone and help stabilise the joint.

Sports requiring jumping, turning and twisting movements such as basketball, volleyball, netball and football; and explosive changes of direction such as soccer, tennis and hockey are particularly vulnerable to ankle sprains.

Following an ankle sprain, the ankle joint may become unstable and take a long time to recover.

Acute ankle sprains result from a force being applied to the ankle joint which causes excessive range of movement at the joint. Players are immediately aware of the condition and may hear an audible ‘snap’ or ‘pop’, due to the tearing or stretching of the ligaments.

Sprains are graded on a scale of 1 to 3 (mild, moderate, and severe), depending on the degree of tearing to the ligaments. In most cases, x-rays are performed to rule out a fracture or dislocation.

• Minor tear
• Minimal pain
• Little of no joint instability
• Mild pain with weight bearing activities
• Slight loss of balance

• Some tearing of the ligament fibres
• Moderate to severe pain
• Moderate instability of the joint
• Swelling and stiffness
• Pain with weight bearing activities
• Poor balance

• Complete tear of the ligament
• Severe pain followed by minimal pain
• Gross instability of the joint
• Severe swelling
• Possible pain with weight bearing
• Poor balance

Most ankle sprains heal within 2 to 6 weeks, however severe sprains many take as long as 12 weeks. A comprehensive rehabilitation program minimises the chance of the injury recurring and includes flexibility, balance, stretching, strengthening and sport specific exercises. During this time taping or bracing the ankle may be prescribed to provide support until full function is regained. If, while performing a rehabilitation exercise, ankle joint pain or discomfort is experienced, stop immediately and reconsult a sports medicine professional.

Players with significant ligament injuries (Grade 2 or 3) are advised to use bracing or protective taping when playing sport for a minimum of 6 to 12 months post injury.

At Gateway Sports and Rehab we have a range of Ankle Braces to assist in the recovery and rehabilitation of ankle injuries. 

Gateway Sports and Rehab are a registered NDIS Provider and provide an assortment of physio supplies and rehabilitation tools to ease pain and discomfort and help you achieve freedom of movement.

Please contact us if you would like more information on our product range on 1300 982 259 or  fill in the contact form.