Do I Need to See a Physio After An Ankle Sprain? | Robina Physiotherapy Gold Coast

By Aaron Woolley, Physiotherapist.

Spraining or “rolling” your ankle is a common injury, but it can be more serious than it seems at first. Many people wonder whether they should just rest or if seeking professional help from a physiotherapist is necessary. In this article, we’ll explore the mechanics of an ankle sprain, how it’s graded, and why it’s crucial to see a Physio at Robina Physiotherapy on the Gold Coast for a complete recovery.

What Happens When You Sprain Your Ankle?

An ankle sprain typically occurs when the ankle twists or rolls in an awkward way, putting strain on the ligaments that support the joint. This can happen during sports, walking on uneven surfaces, or even stepping awkwardly off a curb.

When the ankle is forced into an excessive position, the ligaments (strong tissue bands stabilizing the ankle bones) can stretch or tear. A sprain can range from a mild stretch to a complete ligament tear. The most common sprain involves rolling the ankle inwards, stretching or tearing the outer ligaments, which accounts for about 85% of sprains.

The Three Grades of Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains are classified into three grades, depending on their severity:

• Grade 1 (Mild): The ligaments are slightly stretched but not torn. You may experience mild swelling and tenderness, but walking is still possible with minimal pain.
• Grade 2 (Moderate): The ligament is partially torn. There is more swelling, bruising, and pain, and walking becomes painful.
• Grade 3 (Severe): The ligament is completely torn, leading to ankle instability. You may be unable to put weight on the foot, and the swelling and pain are significant.

Why Should You See a Robina Physio After an Ankle Sprain?

Although rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E.) are commonly recommended for an ankle sprain. Getting ankle sprain physio from Robina Physio on the Gold Coast is essential to ensure the injury heals correctly. Without proper treatment, an ankle sprain may lead to long-term issues, such as chronic instability or persistent pain and swelling.

Statistics show that up to 40% of individuals who suffer from an ankle sprain report ongoing problems, making physiotherapy crucial for a complete recovery. At Robina Physiotherapy on the Gold Coast, our experienced physiotherapists can create a personalised rehabilitation plan to strengthen the muscles around the ankle, improve balance, and restore range of motion.

When Should You See a Physiotherapist After an Ankle Sprain?

If you’ve sprained your ankle and are experiencing significant pain, swelling, or difficulty walking, it’s important to see a physiotherapist as soon as possible. Early intervention accelerates recovery and reduces the risk of complications.

If you’re unsure about the severity of the injury, a physiotherapist can provide a thorough assessment and help you understand the best treatment plan from the start.

Physiotherapy Treatment for Ankle Sprains

The treatment process for an ankle sprain involves several stages, depending on the injury’s severity:

1. Acute Phase: The physiotherapist assesses the injury and may recommend imaging if fractures or significant tears are suspected. The focus in this phase is on reducing pain and swelling with methods such as offloading, ice, compression, and elevation. Gentle range-of-motion exercises may also be introduced.
2. Subacute Phase: As pain and swelling decrease, your physiotherapist will introduce exercises to strengthen the ankle and improve mobility. These exercises might include ankle rotations, calf raises, and resistance band training.
3. Rehabilitation Phase: This phase aims to restore full function and stability to the ankle. Balance exercises, functional training, and sport-specific drills may be added to prepare for a safe return to normal activities.
4. Return to Activity: Gradual reintroduction to daily activities and sports is carefully monitored to prevent re-injury. Strength testing will be conducted to ensure your ankle is strong and stable enough for your desired activities.

How Long Does It Take for an Ankle Sprain to Heal?

The healing time for an ankle sprain depends on the injury’s severity. A mild sprain may heal within a few days to a week, while moderate sprains could take several weeks. Severe sprains often require months of rehabilitation.

By following the rehabilitation plan outlined by your physiotherapist at Robina Physiotherapy, you can ensure a faster, more complete recovery and minimize the risk of future sprains.

Why Choose Robina Physiotherapy?

At Robina Physiotherapy on the Gold Coast, our goal is to help you recover fully and get back to doing what you love. If you’ve sprained your ankle, don’t wait for the injury to worsen—book an appointment with one of our experienced physiotherapists today to start your journey toward full recovery.

Our expert team will provide you with a tailored rehabilitation plan to help you heal safely and effectively. Whether you’re dealing with an ankle sprain or other musculoskeletal issues, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

If you need further assistance or want to book a consultation with Robina Physiotherapy, BOOK ONLINE or Contact Us at (07) 5578 7233 today. We’re here to help you move better, live pain-free, and stay active!