Ankle sprains are common injuries that can be treated with physical therapy. Physical therapists can recommend exercises that can help alleviate ankle sprains. Here are some exercises that can help:
- Range-of-motion exercises: These exercises can help improve ankle mobility and flexibility. You can start range-of-motion exercises within the first 48 hours after your injury. You can do these exercises sitting or standing, moving your foot in different directions.
- Strengthening exercises: These exercises can help improve ankle strength and stability. Examples of strengthening exercises include leg swings, heel-to-toe walking, and balance exercises.
- Stretching exercises: These exercises can help improve ankle flexibility and reduce stiffness. Examples of stretching exercises include calf stretches and Achilles tendon stretches.
It is important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise program for an ankle sprain. A physical therapist can recommend the best exercises for specific conditions.
Source: Conversation with Bing, 6/24/2023
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(2) Sprained Ankle: Rehabilitation Exercises | Kaiser Permanente. https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/health-encyclopedia/he.sprained-ankle-rehabilitation-exercises.te7604.
(3) 5 Physical Therapy Exercises for Sprained Ankle Relief. https://www.prostaffpt.com/2023/01/17/5-physical-therapy-exercises-for-sprained-ankle-relief-nj/.
(4) Ankle Strengthening Exercises and PT for Ankle Injuries – Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/ankle-exercises-a-complete-guide-2696480.
(5) Sprained Ankle – OrthoInfo – AAOS. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/sprained-ankle.

