07/01/2026
An ankle sprain might feel like a “simple” injury, but the reality is often very different! 👟
Ankle sprains are one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries we see, both in sport and everyday life. Most involve the lateral ankle ligaments, which play a crucial role in controlling movement, balance, and stability. When these structures are injured, normal ankle control is disrupted, not just temporarily, but sometimes long term.
Many people notice that even after the pain settles, they’re left with:
• Ongoing swelling or stiffness
• A feeling of instability or “giving way”
• Reduced confidence on uneven ground
• Changes in walking or running mechanics
This happens because ankle sprains don’t just affect the ligaments… they also impair proprioception and neuromuscular control (your body’s ability to sense position and react quickly). Without restoring this, the risk of re-injury remains high.
Research shows that up to 40% of people develop chronic symptoms following an ankle sprain. That’s why rest alone isn’t enough.
✅ Early, guided loading improves outcomes
✅ Rehab should address mobility, strength, balance, and sport-specific demands
✅ Proper rehab reduces recurrent sprains and chronic ankle instability
If you’ve had an ankle sprain, recent or old, and it still doesn’t feel quite right, it’s worth getting it properly assessed. The right rehab can make a huge difference to how your ankle feels, functions, and performs long term.
