Ankle & Achilles Injuries
Sprains, chronic instability and Achilles tendinopathy in active people.
Ankle sprains are so common they get dismissed, which is exactly why so many become chronic. An ankle that has been sprained once is markedly more likely to be sprained again — unless strength, balance and control are deliberately rebuilt. Achilles tendinopathy follows the same principle: it needs load, correctly dosed.
What we look at
Acute sprains
Assessment of the injured structures, early movement and loading rather than prolonged immobilisation, and a graded return.
Chronic instability
Repeated rolling usually means the balance and strength work never happened. It's very trainable, at any point after the original injury.
Achilles tendinopathy
Progressive loading is the primary treatment. Rest reduces pain temporarily and tolerance permanently.
Return-to-sport testing
Hop and jump testing for symmetry, so the decision to return isn't based on how it feels on a good day.
What to expect
Your appointment, stage by stage.
Assessment
History, physical examination, gait and movement analysis, and objective strength testing where it's relevant. We're building a picture of what the limb can currently tolerate.
Diagnosis
A clear explanation of what's happening and why — in plain language, with the reasoning shown. Imaging or onward referral where it will change the plan.
Treatment
A staged plan combining manual therapy, exercise prescription, footwear or orthotic support and activity modification, weighted to what your presentation actually needs.
Follow-up
Re-testing against the baseline so progress is measured, not assumed, and the plan adjusts as capacity improves.
Common questions
Ankle & Achilles, answered.
It's just a sprain — do I need to see anyone?
If it's swollen, you can't weight-bear, or it's the second or third time, yes. Repeat sprains are a strength and control problem worth fixing.
Should I use a brace?
Useful in the short term and for return to sport. Long-term reliance is worth avoiding if strength can do the job instead.
Why does my Achilles hurt more the day after rest?
Common with tendinopathy — tendons often feel worse after inactivity and settle with movement. It's a reason to load carefully, not to stop.
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. If you're in pain, an assessment is the only way to know what's actually happening — book online or call 9284 0736.
Related
Sports Podiatry
Assessment, rehabilitation and return-to-sport planning for foot, ankle, knee and hip injuries.
Rehab & Conditioning
Targeted exercise programs that build the capacity the injured limb is missing.
Precision Testing
VALD ForceDecks strength testing and movement analysis, so progress is measured rather than assumed.