A sprained ankle is a common injury to the ligaments of the ankle, and one of the most frequent conditions seen by our podiatrists across Sydney. Sprains occur after ligaments are damaged or torn, and their severity can vary greatly. A sprained ankle can also be referred to as a twisted or rolled ankle.
Anatomy of a Sprained Ankle
A ligament is the stretchy, tough band of tissue that connects muscles to adjacent bones, keeping the joint stable and allowing you to perform movements. All ligaments have a normal range of motion, and when a ligament is forced to stretch beyond this range — usually as a result of the foot turning inward suddenly — a sprain develops. Any joint can be sprained, but ankles and wrists are the most commonly affected.
Symptoms of a Sprained Ankle
The symptoms of a sprained ankle include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Joint instability
- Reduced range of motion
- Popping sound when the injury occurs
Sprained Ankle Treatment in Sydney
If you suspect you have a sprained ankle in Sydney, you should always see a podiatrist to assess the condition and rule out more severe injuries, such as fractures. At ModPod Podiatry, our experienced team across Sydney — including our clinics in Dee Why, Mosman, Rose Bay, North Ryde, and the CBD — can provide a thorough assessment and tailored treatment plan to ensure your ankle heals correctly.
Sprains are classified by grades, ranging from 1 to 3. The treatment for a sprained ankle will largely depend on its severity. X-rays and MRIs are commonly used to confirm the diagnosis and assess its severity. Ankle sprains are classified as:
- Grade 1: mild damage to the ligaments, without joint instability.
- Grade 2: partial tear of the ligament.
- Grade 3: complete tear of the ligament, with joint instability.
Grade 1–2 sprained ankles are usually treated with non-surgical measures. The initial treatment after the injury consists of rest, icing, compression, and elevation of the ankle (the mnemonic R.I.C.E. can be used to remember these steps), and wearing a brace or walking boot is recommended. These simple steps help manage pain and swelling. Your physio will prescribe a period of rest, and after that, they will tell you which rehabilitation exercises you must perform to regain full strength and mobility. You can take oral, over-the-counter painkillers.
Grade 3 ankle sprains can require surgery. An arthroscopy or reconstruction surgery might be necessary if the damage to the ligament is too severe, the sprained ankle hasn’t healed after non-surgical treatment, or if your doctor believes it is necessary to explore the joint for any bone or cartilage fragments that could hinder the healing process. After surgery, rest and rehabilitation are essential for a full recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my sprained ankle needs an X-ray?
If you cannot bear weight on the ankle, have bony tenderness over the malleolus or the navicular, or your pain is severe, an X-ray is recommended to rule out a fracture. Our Sydney podiatrists follow clinical guidelines to advise you appropriately.
How long does a sprained ankle take to heal?
A Grade 1 sprain may heal in one to two weeks, a Grade 2 sprain in four to six weeks, and a Grade 3 sprain can take three to six months or longer. Seeking early treatment from a Sydney podiatrist at ModPod helps ensure the best possible recovery timeline.
Should I rest completely after a sprained ankle?
Complete rest is generally only recommended in the very early stages. Relative rest — reducing painful activities while maintaining gentle movement — and progressive rehabilitation typically lead to a better outcome than prolonged immobilisation.
Can a sprained ankle become unstable long-term?
Yes. Repeated ankle sprains or inadequately rehabilitated sprains can lead to chronic ankle instability. This means the ligaments remain permanently loosened, increasing the risk of further sprains. Our podiatrists at ModPod Podiatry in Sydney can assess for instability and prescribe appropriate management strategies.
Will I need orthotics after a sprained ankle?
Custom foot orthotics can help correct underlying biomechanical contributors to ankle sprains and improve stability during rehabilitation and beyond. Our Sydney podiatrists at clinics including Dee Why and Mosman can assess whether orthotics are right for you.
When can I return to sport after a sprained ankle?
Return to sport depends on the grade of the sprain and your sport’s demands. A structured rehabilitation programme that progresses through range of motion, strength, balance, and functional drills is essential before returning to full sport. Our Sydney podiatry team can guide you through this process.
Does ModPod Podiatry offer sprained ankle treatment across Sydney?
Yes. We have clinics in Dee Why, Mosman, Rose Bay, North Ryde, and the CBD (Hunter Street), making expert sprained ankle treatment accessible right across Sydney. Call (02) 9960 3981 or book online.
Book Your Sprained Ankle Appointment with Our Sydney Podiatrists
Don’t leave a sprained ankle untreated. The expert podiatrists at ModPod Podiatry across Sydney are here to assess your injury, provide treatment, and get you back on your feet as quickly as possible. Book online today or call our Sydney clinics on (02) 9960 3981.
