Dr Ashby Smith: Ankle sprains

Ankle sprains are the most common lower limb injury for sports people and have the highest re-injury rate of all musculoskeletal injuries. Last year the British Journal of Sports Medicine (BJSM) updated their clinical guidelines on how to assess and manage lateral ankle sprains. They emphasised the need for early mobilisation and rehabilitation for ankle sprains with no bony pathology – this is where Osteopathy can really make a difference.
The swelling that occurs in the early stage of an ankle sprain can significantly reduce the patient’s range of motion (ROM) and often causes pain. Osteopathic manual therapy techniques have been shown to be effective in regaining this lost ROM. Manual therapy techniques that an Osteopath may use include: effleurage, where the aim is to reduce excess oedema in the ankle; soft tissue massage, to reduce tight muscles that impact joint function; joint manipulation or mobilisation, to increase ROM in the ankle and foot.  When combined with an adequate exercise program the BJSM guidelines recommend that manual therapy has a strong role to play in providing optimal treatment and management of ankle sprains. If you have any questions please call one of our friendly Osteopaths  at Blackburn Osteopathy on 9878 3122, or make an appointment online at www.blackburnosteopathy.com.au

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