Lateral ankle sprain
The common 'rolled ankle' injury to the ligaments on the outside of the ankle.
Overview
A lateral ankle sprain is the most common ankle injury, occurring when the foot rolls inward and stretches or tears the outer ankle ligaments. Most recover well, but structured rehabilitation reduces the risk of recurrent sprains.
Symptoms
- Pain and swelling on the outer ankle
- Bruising after the injury
- Difficulty weight-bearing initially
- A feeling of instability afterwards
Causes
- Rolling the ankle inward (inversion)
- Landing awkwardly or on uneven ground
- Previous ankle sprains
Treatment
- Early protection, swelling and movement management
- Progressive balance and strength training
- Return-to-sport progression
- Bracing during early return to activity