Condition
Ankle sprains and instability
An ankle sprain is a stretch or tear of the ligaments that support the ankle, common in sport and often covered by ACC as an injury.
Proper rehab matters, because poorly rehabilitated sprains are the main reason ankles become repeatedly unstable. The good news is that instability is usually fixable.
Common symptoms
- Pain, swelling and bruising after rolling the ankle
- A feeling the ankle gives way, especially on uneven ground
- Repeated sprains over time
How it's treated
You'll have the injury assessed and, importantly, your rehab guided: strength, balance and control work, plus a staged return to activity. Where instability is ongoing, bracing or support may help.
Common questions
Is a sprain covered by ACC?
Sprains from an accident are often eligible. You can have it assessed and the claim lodged for you.
Why does my ankle keep spraining?
Usually because balance and strength were not fully rebuilt after the first sprain. That is fixable with the right rehab.
How long does a sprain take to heal?
It depends on the grade. Many settle over a few weeks, but full rehab of strength and balance is what prevents the next one.
