Ankle sprains are very common injuries, usually caused by the foot turning in. When the foot turns in too much you can either damage or tear the ankle ligaments.

They are immediately and severely painful, which makes walking difficult. If improperly treated, they can develop into a chronic problem. An improperly treated ankle sprain can lead to a weak and unstable ankle, which can increase your risk of recurrent ankle sprain.

If treated quickly and properly, however, ankle sprains can heal well, allowing safe return to activity.

Immediately after an ankle sprain:

Immediately after the injury, your ankle will become stiff. Early range of motion exercises will help you regain normal ankle motion. 

Begin physical therapy exercises with foot circles and drawing alphabets. As your pain decreases start exercises using the work out band and weight bearing exercises. Use pain as your guide.

Weight bearing helps heal your ankle ligaments, so begin walking as soon as your ankle feel comfortable. We recommend using an ankle brace after you sprain your ankle, but to not use it for more than 1-2 months.

Proprioception is your ability to tell the position of your ankle, which is damaged after an ankle sprain. Doing exercises with your eyes open and closed will help improve your proprioception after an ankle sprain. 

Once you can do all the exercises above without any pain we recommend starting hopping exercises.