Symptoms may include:

• Pain around the ankle 
• Swelling and bruising 
• Difficulty walking or weight bearing 
• Tenderness to touch 
• Reduced movement or stiffness 
• Feeling unstable or like the ankle may give way 
• Pain during sport or uneven ground

 

One of the most common ankle injuries is a lateral ankle sprain, which usually occurs when the foot rolls inward.

This commonly affects the ligaments on the outside of the ankle — particularly the Anterior Talofibular Ligament (ATFL).

Depending on severity, injuries may involve one or multiple ligaments and may also affect surrounding tendons, muscles or bones.

Other ankle injuries may include:

Ankle Sprains

Stretching or injury of the ligaments supporting the ankle, often causing pain, swelling and instability.

Peroneal Tendinopathy

Irritation of the tendons on the outside of the ankle which may cause weakness, discomfort and pain during movement.

Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD)

A condition affecting the tendon that supports the arch and inner ankle, sometimes contributing to flattening of the foot and ongoing discomfort.

Sinus Tarsi Syndrome

Pain affecting the outside of the ankle, commonly associated with instability and discomfort on uneven surfaces.

Tarsal Coalition

A condition where bones within the foot have reduced separation and fusion which may contribute to stiffness, repeated ankle sprains and pain.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Compression or irritation of a nerve along the inside of the ankle causing burning, tingling or radiating symptoms.

Chronic Ankle Instability

Repeated sprains or incomplete rehabilitation can sometimes lead to ongoing instability and recurrent injury.

Tendon & Overuse

Injuries Repeated load through the ankle may contribute to irritation of tendons and surrounding tissues.

Early management can support recovery.

General advice may include:

• Ice and compression in the early stages 
• Relative rest from aggravating activity
• Gentle movement as tolerated
• Gradual return to weight bearing where appropriate 
• Supportive taping or bracing if recommended
• Early assessment where symptoms persist

Completing rehabilitation is important to reduce the chance of ongoing ankle issues.

At Podiatry Medics, assessment may include:

• Detailed injury history 
• Physical examination
• Gait and biomechanical assessment
• Assessment of movement and stability 
• Imaging referral where clinically appropriate

Treatment depends on the type and severity of injury and may include:

• Rehabilitation and strengthening programs 
• Footwear advice
• Strapping and bracing 
• Orthotics where clinically indicated 
• Dry needling where appropriate
• K-laser for pain management and accelerated healing
• Shockwave Therapy where clinically appropriate
• Return to sport and activity planning

Ankle bracing may also be recommended in selected cases to improve stability and support recovery.

At Podiatry Medics, our goal is not simply reducing pain — it is restoring confidence, improving movement and helping reduce the risk of reinjury.

No referral required.