Ankle Sprain and How Chiropractic Can Help

An ankle sprain can happen in an instant. A misstep on uneven ground, a slip during sport, or simply landing awkwardly can all result in stretched or torn ligaments. The result is often pain, swelling, and reduced movement that can linger for weeks if not managed well.

Although many ankle sprains do heal naturally, the reality is that without proper care some people experience ongoing instability, recurring injuries, or even long-term weakness in the joint. This is where chiropractic care, alongside tailored rehabilitation, can play a role in guiding safe recovery and helping to reduce the risk of repeat sprains.

At Flynn Chiro, we see patients with ankle injuries and related foot and leg issues at our clinics in Melbourne CBD and Prahran.

What Is an Ankle Sprain?

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments — the strong connective tissues that hold the joint together — are overstretched or torn. Most sprains happen when the foot rolls inwards, stressing the ligaments on the outside of the ankle.

The main symptoms include:

• Sharp or aching pain around the joint
• Swelling that may appear quickly after injury
• Bruising that develops over several hours or days
• Difficulty standing, walking, or putting weight on the foot
• Reduced ankle mobility and stiffness

For some people, it can be difficult to tell the difference between a sprain and a fracture. If you are unable to walk more than a few steps, notice deformity, or experience severe pain, urgent medical review is recommended.

The Different Grades of Ankle Sprain

Ankle sprains are classified into three grades depending on severity:

• Grade I (Mild): Ligaments are overstretched but not torn. Pain and mild swelling are common, with recovery expected within one to three weeks.
• Grade II (Moderate): Partial ligament tear. This grade causes more swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. Recovery usually takes three to six weeks, sometimes longer.
• Grade III (Severe): A complete ligament tear or significant instability. Pain is usually intense, swelling can be severe, and recovery may take months. In some cases, surgical or specialist care may be needed.

Understanding which grade you have helps determine the best management plan and realistic recovery timeline.

First Steps After an Ankle Sprain

Early management is essential in the first few days after a sprain. The commonly recommended approach includes:

• Rest: Avoid activities that worsen pain, particularly weight-bearing, in the early stage.
• Ice: Apply ice for 15–20 minutes every couple of hours to help manage swelling and discomfort.
• Compression: A bandage or brace can help limit excessive movement.
• Elevation: Keeping the ankle raised above heart level reduces fluid build-up and swelling.

Red flags that warrant urgent attention include the inability to walk more than a few steps, numbness, or rapid swelling and bruising.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

While first aid is crucial, chiropractic care can help guide you through recovery and support better long-term outcomes.

Detailed Assessment

We start with a thorough consultation and physical assessment to understand the extent of the injury. If we suspect a fracture or a more complex injury, we’ll recommend imaging or refer you to the appropriate health professional.

Joint & Mobility Techniques

Hands-on chiropractic techniques, applied gently and within your comfort level, can assist mobility and help reduce stiffness in the ankle and surrounding joints. Sometimes the foot, knee, or hip also requires attention to restore healthy movement patterns.

Soft-Tissue Care

Ankle sprains often affect the surrounding muscles, such as the calves and peroneals, which can tighten up as the body compensates. Targeted soft-tissue care can help reduce this tension and improve mobility.

Exercise & Rehabilitation

Research shows that exercise-based rehabilitation is key to recovering fully from an ankle sprain. We guide patients through tailored programmes that begin with simple range-of-motion drills, then progress to strength and balance exercises. This helps restore stability and significantly reduces the likelihood of re-injury.

Taping & Bracing Advice

Supportive taping or bracing may be helpful in the short term, particularly for sport or activities that stress the ankle. We can guide you on the most appropriate option for your situation.

Preventing Chronic Issues

Without proper care, ankle sprains can sometimes lead to chronic instability, recurring sprains, or even arthritis later in life. Chiropractic care can help you address underlying mechanical issues and build resilience for the future.

Recovery Timeline

Healing time depends on the severity of the injury and how well rehabilitation is followed:

• Grade I: Typically 1–3 weeks
• Grade II: Around 3–6+ weeks
• Grade III: Several months, often requiring ongoing rehab

Rushing back to full activity too soon increases the chance of long-term weakness or repeated sprains. A gradual, structured return to walking, sport, or physical activity is always safer.

Preventing Future Sprains

Once your ankle has healed, prevention strategies are just as important as treatment. We often recommend:

• Building strength in the ankle, calf, and foot muscles
• Improving balance and proprioception with exercises such as single-leg standing or wobble board training
• Choosing supportive, activity-appropriate footwear
• Warming up thoroughly before sport or exercise
• Using taping or bracing in high-risk activities or sports

These strategies help protect your ankle and improve confidence in your movements.

FAQs

Do I need an X-ray or MRI?
Not in every case. Imaging is usually reserved for suspected fractures, high ankle sprains, or if recovery is unusually slow.

I’ve sprained this ankle before. Can chiropractic care help with recurring sprains?
Yes. We can identify mobility or stability deficits, provide tailored hands-on care, and guide you through specific rehab to address the underlying cause of repeat injuries.

Will you only treat the ankle?
No. We take a whole-body approach. Hip, knee, and foot function all play a role in how the ankle moves and loads.

When should I seek urgent medical attention?
If you experience severe pain, rapid swelling, numbness, or cannot put weight on the ankle at all, it’s important to seek immediate medical care.

Do you work with athletes?
Yes. We support recreational and competitive athletes with graded return-to-play plans and prevention strategies.

Final Word

Ankle sprains are common, but they don’t have to be long-term problems. With the right management, structured rehabilitation, and supportive chiropractic care, you can recover safely and reduce the risk of ongoing instability.

If you’re experiencing ankle pain or recovering from a sprain, Flynn Chiro is here to help at our Melbourne CBD and Prahran clinics.