Ankle Sprain Physiotherapy

Ankle sprain physiotherapy is an effective treatment for managing and recovering from ankle sprains. The treatment typically progresses through several phases:

Initial Phase

• PRICE protocol: Protection, Rest, Ice 72 hrs, Compression, and Elevation
• Short period of immobilization to reduce swelling and prevent further injury
• Range of motion exercises and isometric strengthening
• Modalities such as acupuncture, ice, and manual therapy to reduce swelling and improve range of motion

Intermediate Phase

• Balance retraining exercises
• Strengthening exercises: start with isometrics, progress to isotonic resistive exercises
• Manual therapy techniques: anterior to posterior talocrural glides, talocrural distraction, soft tissue massage, and manual lymphatic drainage
• Neuromuscular re-education: proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) exercises and balance training

Advanced Phase

• Progressive strengthening and balance exercises to help return to pre-injury activities
• Sport-specific or activity-specific training

Key Exercises

1. Four-way ankle stretch
2. Ankle alphabet: draw letters A to Z with your toes
3. Weightlifting and balance exercises
4. Achilles tendon stretches
5. Towel curl exercise for foot strength

Physiotherapy for ankle sprains aims to:

• Decrease pain and swelling
• Restore range of motion
• Strengthen weak muscles
• Improve balance and proprioception
• Facilitate functional recovery

The duration of treatment varies depending on the severity of the sprain, ranging from 5-14 days for mild sprains to 3-12 weeks or more for chronic cases