Ankle Sprain Physiotherapy Care

I've just rolled my ankle what do I do?

Can you walk on it? Being able to put weight through your ankle can be a reassuring sign, but it does not rule out a more serious injury. Try to avoid pushing through significant pain, and seek an assessment if you cannot walk, have substantial swelling or bruising, or are concerned about a fracture. An X-ray may be needed depending on your symptoms and clinical findings.

In the early stages, protect the ankle and use appropriate measures to manage pain and swelling. We often encourage gentle movement and a gradual return to weight-bearing, as tolerated. A physiotherapist can help you understand what is appropriate for your injury and when to progress your activity.

Do I need to see a physiotherapist?

We recommend an assessment. That does not mean everyone needs ongoing treatment. For some people, a single appointment may be enough to assess the injury, provide advice and explain how to manage recovery independently.

Other injuries require more structured rehabilitation. Treatment depends on the severity of the sprain and the structures affected, including the ligaments and surrounding tissues. Your physiotherapist may recommend supportive strapping, advice on managing swelling, mobility exercises, strengthening and balance training.

Physiotherapy for ankle sprain can also help you understand when it is appropriate to return to work, sport or your usual activities.

Which Exercises should I do?

Every ankle sprain is different. Your rehabilitation exercises should match your symptoms, injury severity and stage of recovery. Early exercises may focus on gentle ankle movements and restoring mobility. As your ankle improves, your programme may progress to strengthening, balance and coordination exercises.

For people returning to running or sport, rehabilitation may eventually include hopping, jumping, landing and changes of direction. A physiotherapist can guide you through these stages, progressing the difficulty as your ankle can tolerate more load.

The goal is not simply to reduce pain. It is to rebuild the strength, control and confidence needed for the activities you want to return to.

My ankle doesn't hurt any more and I can run. So it's fixed. Right?

Not necessarily. Some people recover fully after an ankle sprain, while others continue to experience instability, restricted movement or recurring injuries. Being able to run without pain is encouraging, but it does not always mean your ankle has regained its previous strength and balance.

Your physiotherapist can assess your movement, strength, balance and ability to perform activities relevant to your sport or lifestyle. This helps identify any remaining limitations and determine whether further rehabilitation may be beneficial.

Our goal is to support a complete recovery. Some people need only an initial assessment and a home exercise programme. Others benefit from follow-up appointments to monitor progress and gradually increase exercise demands over several weeks or months.

The right approach depends on your injury, recovery and goals. Physiotherapy for ankle sprains helps you return to your usual activities with confidence while addressing factors that may contribute to future sprains.

Why Choose Willoughby Physio and Chiro?

At Willoughby Physio and Chiro, we guide your ankle sprain rehabilitation with an individual assessment of your injury, movement, and recovery goals. Our physiotherapists help you understand your injury and develop a plan suited to your needs.
Your care may include:

• Assessment of ankle movement, strength, balance and stability
• Personalised exercises to support recovery and reduce the risk of re-injury
• Guidance on returning to walking, work, sport and everyday activities
• Progressions tailored to your symptoms and functional goals
• Practical advice to help you manage your recovery between appointments

We focus on helping you regain confidence in your ankle and return to the activities that matter to you.