Ankle Sprain Treatment | Physio & Sports Therapy

Don't just walk it off

Ankle sprains are one of the most common sports injuries, and one of the most under-treated. Many people "walk it off" and end up with an ankle that keeps giving way.

We take ankle sprains seriously from day one. Our physiotherapists and sports therapists assess how badly the ankle is injured, check for signs that you might need an X-ray, and build a rehab plan to get you back to sport, work or simply walking comfortably.

Checks for signs you may need an X-ray

Structured rehab, not just rest

Balance and strength training

Taping and support advice

Return-to-sport testing

No GP referral needed to book

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Types of ankle sprain we help with

Lateral Ankle Sprain

The most common type, from rolling the ankle inwards. It stretches or tears the ligaments on the outside of the ankle.

Medial Ankle Sprain

Less common, from rolling the ankle outwards and affecting the ligament on the inside of the ankle. Often seen alongside other injuries.

High Ankle Sprain

An injury to the ligaments that join the two lower leg bones just above the ankle. These usually take longer to recover than a standard sprain.

Chronic Ankle Instability

Repeated sprains or incomplete rehab can leave the ankle weak and prone to giving way during activity.

Peroneal Tendon Injury

Irritation or tearing of the tendons on the outside of the ankle, often alongside a lateral ankle sprain.

Cartilage Injury

A more severe sprain can damage the cartilage inside the ankle joint, causing deep pain that lingers. If we suspect this, we'll refer you to your GP for further investigation.

When to see a doctor first

Please contact your GP, call NHS 111, or call 999 in an emergency, rather than booking with us, if you have:

You can't take four steps or put any weight on the foot: go to a minor injuries unit or A&E

Tenderness over the ankle or foot bones, an obvious deformity or severe swelling: get checked at a minor injuries unit or A&E

A foot that is numb, cold or pale: go to A&E

Calf pain, swelling and redness in the days after the injury: seek urgent medical help

Ankle sprain questions answered

How long does a sprained ankle take to heal?

It depends on how badly the ligaments are injured. Mild sprains often settle within a few weeks, while more severe sprains can take a few months. A structured rehab plan helps you get back to activity with confidence.

Should I see a physiotherapist or sports therapist for a sprained ankle?

It's a good idea, especially if you play sport or have sprained the same ankle before. Either can assess the injury, check whether you might need an X-ray, and guide you through rehab that includes balance and strength work, not just rest.

Should I use RICE for an ankle sprain?

RICE stands for Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. Many clinicians now favour an approach that adds early, protected movement, often called POLICE (Protection, Optimal Loading, Ice, Compression, Elevation). We'll guide you on the right balance of rest and movement for your ankle.

Can an ankle sprain cause long-term problems?

It can. Sprains that aren't fully rehabilitated can lead to ongoing weakness, repeat sprains and an ankle that feels unstable. That's why we focus on balance and strength, not just waiting for the pain to go.

Do I need an X-ray for a sprained ankle?

Not always. Most ankle sprains don't need imaging. We check for the signs that suggest a possible fracture, and if we're concerned we'll direct you to a minor injuries unit, A&E or your GP for an X-ray.

"Highly recommend for running-related issues. Jess put together a clear plan to get me ready for my marathon, and her communication was excellent throughout. Thank you!"

"Referred after an increasingly painful knee was impacting on my exercise. Hannah was very thorough in her investigation and analysis of the problem. I noticed a steady but sustained improvement following the recommended exercises over the first week. The exercises were subsequently changed up and the improvement sustained over the next two weeks. What definitely helped was the link between the Injury Active Clinic and the Barn. Hannah provided a briefing for the coaches, ensuring the gym sessions reinforced the recommended physio programme."

"Jess was so lovely and supportive throughout my time with her. She really helped build my confidence and get me back to doing the sports I love! I'm so grateful for all her help and would highly recommend :)"

Book a Pain & Movement Assessment

Rather than resting and hoping it settles, get it looked at. Your assessment gives you a clear explanation of what we think is going on, a plan, and a way to measure your progress.

Book an Assessment

Assessment

A thorough look at your history, how you move and what aggravates it, so we understand what's driving your symptoms.

Your Plan

A clear plan with realistic goals and the right mix of hands-on care and exercise for you.

Build Back Up

Progressive strength and movement work so you can get back to full activity with confidence.

Ankle Sprain
Treatment

Don't just walk it off