Ankle Sprain Treatment in South Yarra

Ankle sprains are one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries, often occurring during sport, exercise, or even simple everyday movements. They typically involve overstretching or tearing of the ligaments that support the ankle, most commonly the lateral (outer) ligaments. Pain, swelling, bruising, and a feeling of instability are common symptoms that can persist if not properly managed.

At Osteopathic Movement, our South Yarra osteopaths provide comprehensive care for ankle sprains — from early pain management to full functional rehabilitation. We focus on restoring mobility, reducing swelling, and retraining balance and stability to prevent re-injury.

Common Causes and Types of Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains can occur in various ways, depending on how the joint is loaded or rolled. Common causes include:

  • Rolling the ankle inward (inversion sprain) during sport or uneven ground

  • Landing awkwardly from a jump or change of direction

  • Weakness or stiffness in the ankle and foot

  • Poor footwear support or unstable surfaces

  • Previous sprains leading to chronic instability

Even mild ankle sprains can lead to ongoing weakness or reduced balance if left untreated. Early intervention is key — you can book an appointment online today to start your recovery plan.

How Osteopathy Can Help

Osteopathic treatment helps reduce pain, restore ankle function, and support ligament healing by improving joint mobility and muscle balance around the foot and lower leg.

Treatment may include:

  • Soft tissue massage – to reduce swelling and muscle tension

  • Joint mobilisation – to restore ankle range of motion and reduce stiffness

  • Myofascial release – to improve circulation and aid recovery

  • Muscle Energy Techniques (MET) – to enhance stability and balance

  • Kinesiology taping or support advice – to assist with pain-free movement in early stages

Your osteopath will also assess your gait, footwear, and overall lower limb alignment to prevent future sprains.

Individualised Exercise Rehabilitation

To ensure full recovery and prevent re-injury, we create individualised exercise rehabilitation programs tailored to your specific injury stage and activity goals. These programs focus on rebuilding strength, coordination, and proprioception (joint position awareness).

Exercises may include:

  • Balance and stability training using single-leg or wobble board exercises

  • Calf and ankle strengthening for dynamic control

  • Mobility drills to restore full range of motion

  • Progressive return-to-sport conditioning to improve agility and confidence

We guide you through each phase of rehabilitation, helping you return to daily life or sport stronger and more stable than before.

Begin Your Recovery

Our goal is to restore your ankle’s strength, confidence, and stability — reducing the risk of future sprains and improving overall performance.

  • Meet our South Yarra osteopaths

  • Explore our Osteopathic Movement wellness centre

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