Lateral Ankle Sprain (Eversion)

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Complaints

Feeling of ankle rolling outwards or giving way
Weakness
Swelling
Increased ankle pain with running and walking activities

Possible Causes

Weak ankle joint musculature
Increased laxity in ligaments and tendons surrounding joint
Pes Cavus (high arched / rigid) foot
Excessive pronation
Lack of shoe support

Shoe Profile

The long axis of the shoe should provide maximum torsional control of foot rotation (pronation/supination). The midsole of the shoe should have moderate to firm vertical support. This, along with a firm heel counter, translates stability to the ankle.

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Orthotics

Neutral (mild pronators) – Over-the-counter orthotics may be beneficial
Moderate to Excessive Pronators or Pes Cavus feet – Custom orthotics

Recommended Accessories

SuperFeet arch supports

Provides increased stability for the foot and ankle.

ProStretch for calf muscles

Increase flexibility in the calf allows for the ankle stabilizers (muscles) to function more efficiently.

ASO Ankle Stabilizer

Provides maximum support while playing sports.

ProTec Athletic ankle support

Provides light ankle support.

TheraBand Light Resistance Band Kit

Excellent for strengthening the ankle.

FlexiKold Gel Cold Pack

Provides relief for pain and reduces swelling and inflammation.

Exercises

**Please consult your physican before engaging in an exercise program.**

With all strengthening exercises, start with 3 sets of 10 repetitions. If you experience any sort of pain reduce your reps to 3 sets of 5. For all stretches, repeat 3 times holding each stretch for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Using RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) can be beneficial in the treatment of injuries as well.

Gastrocnemius (calf) Standing Stretch	Soleus Standing Stretch
Stand with hands resting on wall or on stable object. Place the UNINVOLVED leg forward of involved leg. Keep the back leg (involved leg) straight and heel on the ground throughout the exercise. Lean body forward bending at ankles and hold. Return to starting position, relax, and repeat	Stand with hands resting on wall or on stable object. Place the UNINVOLVED leg forward of involved leg. Keep heel on the ground throughout the exercise. Bend knees, squat down, and hold. Return to starting position, relax and repeat.
Foot Up Elastics Exercise	Foot Out Elastic Exercise
Place knot of elastic (Theraband) in door jamb about one foot up from the floor. Sit on floor with leg out straight and attachment of elastic at the bottom of the foot. lace elastic around inside of foot just below the toes. Back up to pick up slack of elastic. Pull foot up keeping knee straight and hold. Slowly return to the starting position and repeat.	Place knot of elastic (Theraband) in door jamb about one foot up from the floor. Sit on floor with leg out straight and attachment of elastic outside and above the foot. Place elastic around inside of foot just below the toes. Move leg away from attachment of the elastic to pick up slack. Keeping leg still, pull foot out against elastic without rotating leg and hold. Slowly return to the starting position and repeat.

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