Specialised treatment for ankle sprain
A sprain is stretching or tearing of ligaments, which connect adjacent bones in a joint and provides stability to the joint.
ankle sprain frequently asked questions
What are the signs and symptoms of Ankle Sprain?
Ankle sprains can cause:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Bruising
- Stiffness
- Numbness in the toes
- Inability to walk or bear weight on the ankle
What are the causes of Ankle sprain?
An ankle sprain is a common injury and occurs when you fall or suddenly twist the ankle joint or when you land your foot in an awkward position after a jump. It most commonly occurs when you participate in sports or when you jump or run on a surface that is irregular.
How is Ankle sprain diagnosed?
The diagnosis of an ankle sprain is usually made by asking the history of injury and physical examination of the ankle. X-ray of your ankle may be needed to confirm if a fracture is present.
What are the treatment options for Ankle sprain?
The most common treatment recommended for ankle sprains is rest, ice, compression and elevation (RICE).
- Rest: You should limit use of the injured part to help to reduce pain and prevent further damage. Crutches may be used to help in walking.
- Ice: An ice-pack should be applied over the injured area for up to 3 days after the injury. You can use a cold pack or crushed ice wrapped in a towel. Ice packs helps to reduce swelling and relieve pain. Never place ice directly over the skin.
- Compression: Compression of the injured area helps to reduce swelling and bruising. This is usually accomplished by using an elastic wrap for a few days to weeks after the injury.
- Elevation: Place the injured part above heart level to reduce swelling. Elevation of an injured leg can be done for about 2 to 3 hours a day.
The doctor may also use a brace or splint to reduce motion of the ankle. Anti-inflammatory pain medications may be prescribed to help reduce the pain and control inflammation.
You may need to use an ankle brace or wrap to support and protect your ankle during sports activities. Avoid pivoting and twisting movements for 2 to 3 weeks.
To prevent further sprains or re-injury you may need to wear a semi-rigid ankle brace during exercise, special wraps, and high-top tennis shoes. A program of ankle exercises will also help to prevent re-injury by making the ankles strong and flexible.
Ankle & foot treatments
Ankle Arthroscopy
Ankle arthroscopy is most often performed to remove scar tissue and inflammation or to remove small detachments of bone and cartilage. Recent advances have permitted surgical procedures to be performed inside joints without opening the joints by traditional methods. Using
Ankle Block for Foot Surgery
Nearly all mid and forefoot surgery can be comfortably and reliably performed using local anaesthesia (ankle block). Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Surgeon, Dr George Dracopoulos and Anaesthetist, Dr Glenda Rudkin have recently completed a six year study of 1000 patients
Ankle Ligament Reconstruction
At Orthopaedics SA, we provide high-quality care for all of your musculoskeletal needs, including ankle ligament reconstruction surgery, a medical procedure that is used to treat ankle sprains and instability. Ankle ligaments are tough bands of tissue that connect the
Keyhole (Minimally Invasive) Bunion Surgery
Minimally invasive (keyhole) bunion surgery is a technique that reduces the size of the incisions during the surgical procedure. Using specialised small tools, your surgeon performs the entire bunion removal surgery through several small cuts, reducing scarring and recovery time.
Open Bunion Surgery
There are over 150 different surgical options for correcting a bunion, but they all tend to involve moving the bone(s) to narrow the foot and realign the big toe as well as shaving off the bunion. Keyhole bunion surgery is
Total Ankle Replacement
Though a generally uncommon procedure, total ankle replacement can drastically reduce pain and restore movement, particularly in people who suffer from conditions such as ankle arthritis. Operating from locations across Adelaide, Orthopaedics SA surgeons supply uniquely tailored assessments and treatments
Why Orthopaedics SA?
Comprehensive care
From arthritis to sports injuries, we treat a full spectrum of bone and joint conditions to keep you moving.
Expert surgeons
Our highly trained doctors have years of experience delivering precise and effective treatments.
SA’s largest practice
With 23 specialists, we offer unmatched expertise and evidence-based care for every patient.
Multiple locations
We have multiple clinics across South Australia, making it simple to find expert care nearby.
Patient-centric approach
We prioritise understanding your condition to ensure every treatment recommendation feels right for you.
Reliable support
Our team of nurses and administrative staff works behind the scenes to make your experience smooth and stress-free.
Meet our doctors
Our surgeons are highly qualified to offer personalised treatments tailored to your needs. We take the time to listen, explain your options, and ensure every decision is made with your well-being in mind.
We take responsibility for our patient’s experience
From your initial consultation to follow-up care, our team will guide you through every step of your treatment. Your specialist will provide a detailed recovery plan, including physical therapy to restore function and prevent future injuries.