- Pain or a dull ache on the inside or outside of the ankle especially when bearing weight eg.walking up or down stairs
- Significant swelling at the joint or ligaments
- Swelling and pain along the tendons
Ankle pain can be the result of a acute traumatic sprain which tears the ligaments of the inside or outside ankle and can even cause fractures or dislocation. Overuse injuries lead to chondral or cartilage surface wear & tears, stress fractures and tendon inflammation.The physio will test the ankle for imbalances in range of motion, joint quality & ligament laxity. Swelling and muscle spasm can be noted and managed, serious pathology is imaged to define diagnosis These imbalances are then managed with manual therapies and other modalities eg exercise, bracing and ice. Predisposing factors will be addressed to prevent recurrence.
- Poor balance and tendency to walk flat-footed and turned-out
- Tightness in the calf
- Limited movement or stiffness in the ankle with pain at the end of range
Do ask your physiotherapist, GP or sports physician about your condition, don't ignore it! It can worsen and lead to persistence of your symptoms and further disability.
- Diagnosis and explanation of your specific condition
- Management of swelling and recovery to full range of movement of the ankle joint
- Massage / joint mobilization
- Stretching and strengthening to prevent further weakness & reoccurrence
- Proprioceptive training to improve balance
- Bracing, ice & electrotherapy
- Dry needling and western acupuncture
- Xrays if necessary
- Referral for ant inflammatory medication from your GP if necessary
