What is Ankle Sprain?
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle joint are stretched or torn, usually when the foot rolls inward (inversion). While often dismissed as minor, research shows that up to 40% of ankle sprains lead to chronic ankle instability if not properly rehabilitated.
At Lower Limb Clinic, ankle sprains sit at the heart of what we do. Our MSK team can assess ligament damage with diagnostic ultrasound, rehabilitate strength and balance through structured rehabilitation, and address any underlying biomechanical factors with gait analysis and orthotic prescription, all under one roof.
Common Symptoms
- Pain and swelling around the ankle
- Bruising on the outside or inside of the ankle
- Difficulty bearing weight
- A feeling of instability or the ankle giving way
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion
- Pain that persists weeks after the initial injury
- Recurrent ankle sprains
Common Causes
- Lateral ligament injury (most common: ATFL, CFL)
- Medial (deltoid) ligament sprain
- High ankle sprain (syndesmosis injury)
- Peroneal tendon injury
- Chronic ankle instability from previous sprains
- Osteochondral lesion (cartilage damage)
- Biomechanical factors predisposing to recurrence
How We Treat Ankle Sprain
Our approach to ankle sprains goes far beyond RICE. We conduct a thorough clinical assessment, supported by in-house diagnostic ultrasound when needed, to establish the grade and structures involved. Treatment combines progressive strengthening, proprioceptive retraining, and sport-specific rehabilitation, with biomechanical assessment to identify and correct factors that increase your risk of re-injury.
Clinical Assessment & Ultrasound
Structured Rehabilitation
Biomechanical Assessment
Return-to-Sport Programme
Ready to get ankle sprain treated?
When to Seek Professional Help
- You cannot bear weight on the ankle after injury
- Significant swelling or bruising develops
- Pain has not improved after 5-7 days
- The ankle feels unstable or gives way repeatedly
- You have had multiple ankle sprains on the same side
- You want to return to sport safely after an ankle injury
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Ankle Sprain at Lower Limb Clinic.
Clinically reviewed by Paul McMullan
MSc Podiatric Sports Medicine (QMUL) · FRCPSGlasg · HCPC Registered
Lead Podiatrist & Clinical Director, Lower Limb Clinic Belfast