Cause
A twisted ankle is one of the most common ankle injuries seen by our podiatrists across Sydney. Saying we have a twisted ankle is just another way to refer to an ankle sprain. This injury is sometimes also referred to as a rolled ankle. We twist our ankles when we stretch the ligaments that hold the joint together beyond their capacity. This usually happens after the ankle is forced to twist inward or outward in a forceful, sudden manner.
The initial symptoms of a twisted ankle include sharp pain, swelling around the ankle, and in some cases, bruising. Some people have also reported hearing a popping sound at the exact moment of the injury. Whether you are an athlete training in Dee Why or someone who stepped off a kerb in the Sydney CBD, a twisted ankle deserves prompt assessment and care.
Treatment
The initial treatment for a twisted ankle can be summarised using the mnemonic R.I.C.E. This technique consists of using simple methods in order to improve the initial symptoms caused by the injury.
The different components of the R.I.C.E are:
- Rest: reducing activity will help improve swelling and bleeding. It will also help you avoid further injury. Resting your twisted ankle can be achieved through the use of crutches, or simply by taking some days to rest up and staying in bed.
- Ice: this will help reduce blood flow to the injured area, which will initially help decrease swelling. It will also provide pain relief thanks to cold’s numbing effects. Ice shouldn’t be applied directly onto the skin; instead, place a cloth between the ice and your skin, and limit its use to 10-15 minute sessions.
- Compression: keeping your twisted ankle compressed will help reduce swelling and will provide the joint with a certain amount of stability; thus avoiding a worse injury. You can use a bandage to wrap your ankle. Make sure your ankle is wrapped snuggly, but not tight enough to cause numbness, since this could actually be harmful to your tissues and delay the healing process. Keep your ankle bandaged during the day and remove the bandage at night. Kinesio tape or a tubular compression sleeve can also be used.
- Elevation: place your foot above the level of your heart. This will help fluids drain from your tissues and reduce swelling. You can achieve this by simply propping your foot up with some pillows while you are laying down, or placing your foot higher than the rest of your body while resting on a sofa.
In addition to these techniques, some people add an extra element to R.I.C.E., turning it into P.R.I.C.E. This extra element is protection, and it can be tremendously helpful while recovering from a twisted ankle:
- Protection: placing a cast or walking boot over the injured area will provide stability and prevent your ankle from suffering any further damages while it is still in the initial phases of the injury.
When to See a Sydney Podiatrist for a Twisted Ankle
Whilst some mild twisted ankles settle with home management, it is important to have your ankle assessed by a qualified podiatrist if you experience significant pain, persistent swelling, or instability. Our podiatry team at ModPod Podiatry has clinics across Sydney, including Mosman, Rose Bay and North Ryde, and we can assess the severity of your ankle injury and create a tailored rehabilitation plan to get you back on your feet as quickly as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I’ve twisted my ankle or broken it?
A twisted ankle and a fractured ankle can present with similar symptoms — pain, swelling, and bruising. The key difference is that a fracture typically causes more severe, localised bony pain and may involve deformity. X-ray is the only reliable way to distinguish between the two. If in doubt, see a podiatrist or GP promptly.
How long does a twisted ankle take to heal in Sydney?
Mild twisted ankles (Grade I) typically resolve within one to two weeks with proper R.I.C.E. management. Moderate sprains (Grade II) may take four to six weeks, while severe sprains (Grade III) can require several months of rehabilitation. Our Sydney podiatrists can assess your injury and give you a more specific timeline.
Should I see a podiatrist or physio for a twisted ankle?
Both podiatrists and physiotherapists can manage twisted ankle injuries effectively. At ModPod Podiatry in Sydney, our podiatrists specialise in foot and ankle care and are experienced in assessing, treating, and rehabilitating ankle sprains — from Dee Why to the CBD.
Can I walk on a twisted ankle?
Walking on a mildly twisted ankle may be possible, but it is not always advisable. Putting weight on a more seriously injured ankle can worsen the injury. It is best to have it assessed as soon as possible. Our Sydney podiatry clinics offer prompt appointments for acute ankle injuries.
Will my twisted ankle need orthotics afterwards?
Some people who suffer recurrent ankle sprains or have underlying biomechanical issues benefit from custom foot orthotics to improve ankle stability and reduce the risk of re-injury. Our podiatrists in Sydney can assess whether orthotics are appropriate for your recovery.
How can I prevent twisting my ankle again?
Ankle strengthening exercises, balance training (proprioception), appropriate footwear, and, in some cases, ankle bracing or orthotics can all help reduce the risk of re-injury. Our podiatry team across Sydney can guide you through a structured prevention programme.
Does ModPod Podiatry treat twisted ankles across Sydney?
Yes. ModPod Podiatry has multiple clinics across Sydney, including Dee Why, Mosman, Rose Bay, North Ryde, and the CBD (Hunter Street). You can book an appointment online or call us on (02) 9960 3981.
Book an Appointment with Our Sydney Podiatrists
Don’t let a twisted ankle hold you back. The experienced podiatrists at ModPod Podiatry are here to help you recover quickly and safely. With convenient clinic locations across Sydney — including Dee Why, Mosman, Rose Bay, North Ryde, and the CBD — expert ankle care is never far away. Book online today or call us on (02) 9960 3981.
