What is it?
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are overstretched or torn. Lateral ankle sprains (rolling outward) are the most common sports injury. While many people 'walk off' a sprain, inadequate rehabilitation leads to chronic instability and recurrent sprains.
Common causes
- Stepping on an uneven surface
- Landing awkwardly from a jump
- Changing direction suddenly in sport
- Fatigue impairing proprioception
- Previous sprain with incomplete rehabilitation
Signs and symptoms
- Immediate pain and swelling around the ankle
- Bruising appearing within 24 hours
- Difficulty weight-bearing
- Tenderness over the lateral or medial ligaments
- Feeling of the ankle giving way
Physiotherapy treatment at VPARC
- POLICE protocol initially (Protection, Optimal Loading, Ice, Compression, Elevation)
- Progressive weight-bearing and walking rehabilitation
- Balance and proprioception training on wobble boards
- Peroneal muscle strengthening to prevent recurrence
- Sport-specific agility training before return to play
What you can do at home
- Apply ice wrapped in a cloth for 15 minutes every 2 hours in the first 48 hours
- Keep the ankle elevated above heart level when resting
- Begin gentle ankle circles and alphabet writing with the foot after 48 hours
- Use an ankle brace during sports for 6–8 weeks after a significant sprain
When to visit VPARC
Seek immediate assessment if you cannot bear weight at all, or if there is significant deformity — a bone fracture must be excluded. Visit VPARC within 1 week of a significant ankle sprain for optimal rehabilitation.
Call +91 98896 78838 or read more on our Sports Physiotherapy in Varanasi page. This leaflet is general information and does not replace a medical assessment.