A sprained ankle can occur on the sports field or simply walking through your house. A bad step, a trip or a collision with an underfoot pet is all it takes to knock you off your feet. Sudden stretching or twisting can also cause an ankle sprain. That Lego on the floor or the step you missed out the front door can all lead to pain, swelling or worse. When this happens, physical therapy for a sprained ankle can help you recover quickly and possibly avoid future sprains. 

Treatment for an ankle sprain

When you first sprain your ankle, remember the acronym PRICE — protection, rest, ice, compression and elevation. Your ankle provides stability for walking and standing, and you will want to limit the amount of weight your ankle has to carry.  Its complexity isn’t felt until something goes wrong. The pain and limited motion due to a sprain will keep you from participating in your normal active daily routine. You will need to modify your recreational activities over the next few days, and possibly longer. 

Once an X-ray is taken to eliminate the possibility of a fracture, physical therapy may be an important part of your healing process. The required rest following the injury can cause the muscles around your ankle to become tight and shorten. Our physical therapists can help improve your ankle’s mobility and restore normal range of motion, strength and stability. 

Let Continuum Wellness treat your ankle sprain

When you first visit, our specialist will perform a full evaluation and discuss an individualized treatment plan designed to address your specific needs. We use a combination of therapy techniques to treat your ankle. Manual therapy and therapeutic exercises target the affected muscles, and balance training will help with your stability. Physical therapy can help your ankle properly heal and avoid repeat injuries. Strengthening and stretching the affected area is vital to make sure you don’t have a repeat sprain or an even worse injury. 

If you have an ankle injury or would like to learn more, contact us today. Schedule a free screening and let our physical therapists create a treatment plan that is right for you. Let’s get you back on your feet enjoying the active lifestyle that requires you at your best!