Understanding lateral ankle sprains: a quick guide

Lateral ankle sprains are a common injury, particularly among athletes and active individuals.

This blog will explore what occurs in an ankle sprain, who is most commonly effected, how it is assessed, and the treatment options available to you at Lifecare Frankston.

Our goal is to provide clear and accessible information to help you understand this injury and the role of physiotherapy and sports medicine in its management.

What is a lateral ankle sprain?

A lateral ankle sprain, also known as an inversion sprain or rolled ankle, occurs when the foot twists inward, causing damage to the ligaments on the outside of the ankle.

The most commonly affected ligaments are the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL), and the posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL).

This type of injury can range from mild stretching of the ligaments to complete tears.

Who is commonly involved?

Lateral ankle sprains are most commonly seen in athletes, particularly those involved in sports that require running, jumping, and quick changes in direction, such as football, basketball, soccer, and tennis.

However, they can also occur in the general population, especially those who walk on uneven surfaces or wear unsupportive footwear.

Individuals with a history of previous ankle sprains are at a higher risk of re-injury due to weakened ligaments and joint instability.

How is it assessed?

Assessing a lateral ankle sprain typically involves a combination of clinical history and objective evaluation, in some cases your physiotherapist may request further imaging to rule out any bone or joint damage.

Here’s what you can expect during a visit to Lifecare Frankston:

1. Medical history: Your physiotherapist will ask about how your injury occurred, the direction of injury, and your presenting symptoms. This will help guide your assessment and treatment.
2. Physical examination: During the physical exam, your physiotherapist will check for signs of swelling, bruising, and tenderness around the ankle. They may also assess the range of motion, strength, and stability of the joint. This assessment may be provocative to a sore ankle, it is important to communicate this to your physiotherapist.
3. Imaging: Your physiotherapist may require an x-ray or MRI to rule out any more severe damage that occurred to other structures. This will affect how the ankle is managed.

Treatment options

Treatment for a lateral ankle sprain can vary depending on the severity of the injury.

Discussing your injury and goals with your physiotherapist at Lifecare Frankston will ensure you have access to the best available treatment for your recovery.

Here are some common treatment options:

1. Immediate care: Initial treatment often involves the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) to reduce pain and swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers may also be recommended to manage discomfort.
2. Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy is crucial in the recovery process. Your physiotherapist at Lifecare Frankston will design a personalised rehabilitation program to restore strength, flexibility, and stability to the ankle. This can significantly improve function of the injured ankle as well as reduce the risk of future sprains.
3. Bracing and support: In some cases, a brace or ankle support may be recommended to immobilise the ankle and allow the ligaments to heal. This can also provide stability and pain relief during the rehabilitation process.
4. Gradual return to activity: As the ankle heals, it is important to gradually return to normal activities. Your physiotherapist will guide this process to ensure a safe and effective recovery.
5. Surgery: For severe sprains or cases where conservative treatments fail, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair or reconstruct damaged ligaments. Post-surgery, physiotherapy is essential to ensure a full recovery and return to activity.

Early stages of recovery

In the initial stages, it is normal for an ankle sprain to be quite painful.

Crutches or bracing may be provided for support, however it is generally better to put as much weight as tolerable through the ankle during recovery.

If crutches are provided, discuss with your physiotherapist how they recommend you use them, and when you should begin weightbearing.

In most cases, or cases without a fracture, it is not advised to stop weightbearing entirely with an ankle sprain.

The length of time you require support for will vary depending on the severity of the injury.

It is important to be guided by your physiotherapist at Lifecare Frankston as to how much load you put through your ankle and what your rehabilitation consists of based on your stage of recovery.

Exercises are largely focused on strengthening the calves and muscles around the ankle, as well as improving balance, stability, and control of the ankle to minimise the risk of recurrence.

Conclusion

Lateral ankle sprains can be a painful and frustrating injury, but with the right diagnosis and treatment plan, recovery is expected.

At Lifecare Frankston, we specialise in physiotherapy and sports medicine, offering comprehensive care to help you get back on your feet.

Whether you’re an athlete or simply someone who wants to stay active, our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Lachlan McAlary is a physiotherapist at Lifecare Frankston Physiotherapy, who has experience in the assessment and management of lateral ankle sprains.

If you suspect you have sprained your ankle or have any concerns about ankle pain, don’t hesitate to reach out to our clinic.

Early intervention and proper management are key to a successful recovery.

References

• Seah, R., & Mani-Babu, S. (2011). Managing ankle sprains in primary care: what is best practice? A systematic review of the last 10 years of evidence. British Medical Bulletin, 97(1), 105-135. https://doi.org/10.1093/bmb/ldq028
• Petersen, W., Rembitzki, I. V., Gösele, A., Ellermann, A., Liebau, C., Brüggemann, G. P., & Best, R. (2013). Treatment of acute ankle ligament injuries: a systematic review. Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, 133, 1129-1141. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00402-013-1742-5
• Vuurberg, G., Hoorntje, A., Wink, L. M., van der Doelen, B. F. W., van den Bekerom, M. P., Dekker, R., … & Verhagen, E. A. L. M. (2017). Diagnosis, treatment and prevention of ankle sprains: update of an evidence-based clinical guideline. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 52(15), 956-976. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2017-098106
• Hupperets, M. D., Verhagen, E. A., & van Mechelen, W. (2012). Bracing (prophylactic ankle supports) to prevent ankle sprains in athletes: a systematic review. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 46(7), 490-496. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2011-090417
• Bleakley, C. M., O’Connor, S., & Higginson, S. (2012). PRICE needs updating, should we call the police? British Journal of Sports Medicine, 46(4), 220-221. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2011-090417