Ankle sprains are common injuries caused by a number of different, everyday activities, such as slipping on a sidewalk or hiking. People are often quick to assume that rest is the only thing that’s needed to fix an ankle, but without the assistance of a physiotherapist, ankles can fail to heal properly, and full range of motion may never be restored.
What Happens When an Ankle is Sprained?
Tearing or stretching ankle ligaments is the result of “rolling” the foot either in, or out. This causes a sprained ankle. Almost always, pain, swelling, and bruising are associated with a sprained ankle. The time that it takes to heal a sprained ankle can last anywhere from days to weeks, especially if medical assistance is not acquired. Leftover stiffness and a sprained ankle’s susceptibility to future injury are associated with a sprained ankle that is left untreated.
Why is Rest Not a Sufficient Treatment?
It may feel right to rest and avoid using the ankle to allow it to heal on its own, but a healing ankle=inevitable muscle weakening, and possibly an injury that is even worse than the last. The only way to avoid these things is to create a physiotherapy program.
How Does Physiotherapy Help an Injury Heal?
An assessment is the first step in a physiotherapist’s recovery process. The injury is then evaluated, and the personalized treatment plan can then be created. The plan may include swelling reduction and easing pain in the area of the injury. This is accomplished by manual therapy, and it may include the addition of ice or heat, as well as mobilization of the injury, in a gentle way. This is a treatment method that can be utilized in the earlier stages of recovery. Take pressure off the injured ligaments by improving strength and control.
Rebuilding strengthening in the surrounding muscles of the ankle as weakness here is one of the primary reasons why individuals re-injure the same ankle.
Also, improving control and strength of the ankle. Most people focus on strength of the ankle but is one of the most important aspects of rehabilitation, especially in those who are active.
Gradual return to the activities and sports of choice.
The Bigger Picture
Rehabilitation is your first step to movement but most importantly, it helps rehabilitate the ankle in a way that prevents injury to the ankle in the future. Many individuals who do not complete rehabilitation, complain that their ankle is still loose and they tend to re-injure it. This helps rehabilitate the body not just physically but mentally and socially.
When to See a Physiotherapist
If you see swelling that does not go down, if your ankle still hurts after a few days and especially if you cannot bear weight on it, booking a session to assessment is very important. This helps you recover faster and relieves the worry. If you need advice on when to take a break from your sports to allow your injury to heal, physiotherapy is your best answer. If you need help to regain healthy movement from an ankle sprain, see a physiotherapist. help set you on a clear path toward healing.