Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
-
Chat With Us
+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Sprained Ankle
What is a Sprained Ankle?
A sprained ankle, often referred to as a twisted ankle, is one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries. It occurs when one or more ligaments in the ankle are overstretched or torn. These ligaments act like strong bands of tissue that support and stabilize the ankle joint. The most frequent injury involves the ligaments on the outside of the ankle, known as the lateral ligament complex, though the medial (inside) ligaments can also be affected. Physiotherapy is widely recognized as an effective treatment to restore movement, reduce pain, and aid recovery.
How Does a Sprained Ankle Happen?
A sprain typically occurs when the ankle is forced beyond its normal range of movement. Damage to the lateral ligaments usually happens when the foot rolls inward (inversion injury), while medial ligament injuries are caused by the foot turning outward (eversion injury). Everyday situations such as walking on uneven ground, landing awkwardly during sports, or unexpectedly stepping on an object can cause the ankle ligaments to stretch or tear.
What are the Symptoms of a Sprained Ankle?
A sprained ankle usually causes pain around the joint, often felt immediately after the injury. In some cases, you may even hear or feel a snap, crack, or tearing sensation as the foot twists inward or outward. The severity of symptoms depends on how badly the ligaments are stretched or torn. Common symptoms include:
- Pain in the ankle (especially on movement or weight-bearing)
- Audible snap, crack, or tearing at the time of injury
- Swelling and inflammation
- Reduced range of movement in the ankle joint
- Weakness around the ankle
- Difficulty walking due to pain
- Balance problems or feeling of “instability”
What Should I Do if I Have a Sprained Ankle?
The best immediate approach to managing a sprained ankle is to follow the RICE regime for the first 24–48 hours:
- Rest – Avoid putting weight through the injured ankle. Use crutches if necessary.
- Ice – Apply ice (such as a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a damp towel) for 15–20 minutes every 1–2 hours.
- Compression – Use an elastic bandage to apply firm but not overly tight pressure around the ankle.
- Elevation – Keep your ankle raised above the level of your heart (on a chair or pillows) to reduce swelling.
What shouldn’t I do if I have a sprained ankle?
If you have sprained your ankle you shouldn’t undertake activities which may increase blood flow to the injured site and, therefore, swelling to the area. These include hot showers, heat rubs, alcohol and excessive activity.
Could there be any long-term effects from a sprained ankle?
Most sprained ankles heal completely within four to six weeks without complication. However, the severity of the sprain can sometimes lead to longer-term effects. In addition to ligament damage, other ankle structures such as bone, cartilage, muscles, and tendons may also be injured, which can slow recovery. If left untreated, a sprained ankle may result in persistent reduced range of motion, muscle weakness, chronic instability, or an increased risk of reinjury. Early treatment and guided rehabilitation play a crucial role in preventing these complications.
Physiotherapy treatment for a sprained ankle
Following the initial RICE regime (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation), physiotherapy focuses on restoring ankle strength, mobility, and stability to allow a safe return to activity. Treatment may include:
- Exercise programmes – Targeted strengthening and mobility exercises for the ankle and supporting muscles.
- Balance & proprioception training – To improve stability and reduce the risk of future sprains.
- Orthotics – Custom inserts to support ankle alignment and reduce stress on the joint.
- Hydrotherapy – Gentle water-based exercises to aid movement with reduced weight-bearing stress.
- Electrotherapy – Modalities such as ultrasound or TENS for pain relief and healing support.
Your physiotherapist will also provide guidance on preventive strategies, such as ankle taping, bracing, or supports, to protect the joint during high-risk activities and sports.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
Get treated today!
We have immediate appointments available today. Contact us to make an appointment.
Find out more »
We are open...
Our clinics are open:
Mon - Fri: 8am - 8pm
Sat: 8am - 4pm
Sun: On Appointment Basis
Find your nearest clinic
Acephysio Sports have clinics located throughout the Singapore.
Find out more »
