Lateral ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries we see at Bondi Podiatry. Whether you're an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who simply took a wrong step, a lateral ankle sprain can be both painful and frustrating. In this blog, we’ll delve into the causes, symptoms, treatment options, advanced therapies, and prevention strategies to help you stay active and injury-free.

What Is a Lateral Ankle Sprain?

A lateral ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments on the outer side of the ankle are overstretched or torn. This often happens due to a sudden twisting or rolling motion, typically when the foot turns inward excessively. The most commonly affected ligament is the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), though other ligaments like the calcaneofibular ligament may also be involved.

Causes of Lateral Ankle Sprains

Sports and Physical Activity
High-impact sports such as basketball, soccer, and tennis often involve quick changes in direction, increasing the risk of sprains.

Uneven Surfaces
Walking or running on uneven ground can lead to a sudden misstep, putting stress on the lateral ligaments.

Previous Injuries
A history of ankle sprains can weaken the ligaments, making future sprains more likely.

Poor Footwear
Wearing unsupportive shoes, especially during physical activities, can contribute to instability and increase the risk of injury.

Symptoms of a Lateral Ankle Sprain

Common signs of a lateral ankle sprain include pain and tenderness, typically on the outside of the ankle; swelling and bruising caused by inflammation and damage to blood vessels; difficulty bearing weight, with walking or standing being painful; and instability, which creates a feeling of "giving way" in the ankle. If you experience severe symptoms or suspect a fracture, seek medical attention immediately.

Treatment Options

At Bondi Podiatry, we take a comprehensive approach to managing lateral ankle sprains.

Initial care often follows the RICE protocol, which includes rest to avoid weight-bearing on the injured ankle, ice packs to reduce swelling, compression with an elastic bandage for support, and elevation to minimise swelling.

A podiatry assessment is crucial for determining the severity of the sprain. This may involve a detailed examination and imaging to rule out fractures or severe ligament damage.

Rehabilitation focuses on stretching and strengthening exercises to restore mobility and stability, as well as balance training to prevent future injuries.

Orthotics and bracing may also be prescribed to provide extra support during recovery or for long-term prevention.

Advanced Treatments at Bondi Podiatry

For more severe or persistent cases, advanced treatments may be required.

Shockwave therapy which we call pulse or wave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic waves to stimulate healing and reduce pain in soft tissues. It enhances blood flow, accelerates ligament repair, and helps resolve chronic pain from previous injuries.

Moon boots, or controlled ankle motion walking boots, are available at our clinic. These boots stabilise the ankle, reduce strain on injured ligaments, and promote faster recovery by allowing controlled movement.

Pain management medications, including over-the-counter or prescription options, may also be recommended to manage inflammation and discomfort during recovery.

Preventing Lateral Ankle Sprains

Strengthen your ankles with exercises like resistance band workouts and calf raises.

Wear proper footwear that provides good support, especially for sports or activities involving running and jumping.

Be mindful of surfaces when walking or running, paying attention to uneven or slippery ground.

Warm-up and stretch before exercise to enhance flexibility and reduce injury risk.

Why Choose Bondi Podiatry?

At Bondi Podiatry, we specialise in diagnosing, treating, and preventing foot and ankle injuries, including lateral ankle sprains. From initial care and rehabilitation to advanced therapies like shockwave treatment and moon boots, we provide comprehensive, patient-centred care.

If you’ve recently suffered an ankle sprain or want to learn more about injury prevention, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Book an appointment today, and let us help you put your best foot forward!

For professional advice and tailored care, visit Bondi Podiatry. Your foot health is our priority.