Ankle sprains and instability
An ankle sprain happens when one or more of the strong ligaments supporting the joint are stretched or torn. Most occur when the foot twists suddenly, often with the sole turning inwards. A more severe sprain can also damage tendons, bones or the smooth surface of the ankle joint. Ankle instability is when the ankle continues to feel weak or repeatedly gives way after the original injury.
What is an ankle sprain?
An ankle sprain happens when one or more of the strong ligaments supporting the joint are stretched or torn. Most occur when the foot twists suddenly, often with the sole turning inwards. A more severe sprain can also damage tendons, bones or the smooth surface of the ankle joint. Ankle instability is when the ankle continues to feel weak or repeatedly gives way after the original injury.
What causes it?
There may be more than one reason why this develops. Possible causes or contributing factors include:
- A sudden twist or roll of the ankle
- Landing awkwardly
- Changing direction quickly during sport
- Walking or running on uneven ground
- A previous sprain that has left the ankle weak
What are the symptoms?
Everyone experiences symptoms differently, but you may notice:
- Pain, swelling and bruising
- Walking with a limp
- Difficulty putting weight through the foot
- A feeling that the ankle gives way
- Ongoing weakness or instability
- Repeated sprains
How is it diagnosed?
Your consultant will examine the ankle and ask how the injury happened. If you cannot put weight through the foot or a more serious injury is suspected, an X-ray may be arranged. Other imaging may be considered if pain or instability continues.
We’ll explain any tests clearly and talk you through the results, so you understand what they mean for you.
How is it treated?
Most ankle sprains improve without surgery. Treatment aims to settle pain and swelling, restore normal movement and rebuild the ankle’s strength and control. Together, we’ll build a plan around your needs, your recovery and the activities that matter most to you.
The right approach will depend on your diagnosis, symptoms, activity level and personal goals.
- Rest, ice, compression and elevation during the early stage
- Pain relief, if advised
- Physiotherapy exercises
- Strength, balance and coordination training
- A brace or support where appropriate
Your consultant will help you understand which options may be right for you and when your progress should be reviewed.
Recovery goals after treatment for ankle sprains and instability
Early recovery
Reduce pain and swelling Protect the injured ligaments Restore comfortable movement
As your symptoms improve
Rebuild strength and balance Improve ankle control Return to confident everyday walking
Returning to full activity
Return to running, jumping or changing direction Regain confidence in the ankle Reduce the risk of repeated sprains
Working with professionals and teams
Our consultants support professional athletes, sports teams and active individuals with the assessment and treatment of meniscus injuries. Working closely with physiotherapists, strength and conditioning specialists and the wider care team, they develop personalised treatment plans that support a safe return to sport or everyday activities.
The same specialist expertise and collaborative approach are available to every patient, whatever your activity level or goals.
How to pay
We offer flexible options depending on how you choose to access care at Fortius. Whichever option you choose, we’ll help make the process clear and straightforward from the start.
Private medical insurance
If your care is covered by private medical insurance, we’ll usually invoice your insurer directly. Please check your policy in advance and request an authorisation code if your insurer requires one. You’ll be responsible for paying any policy excess or costs that aren’t covered by your insurance.
Paying for yourself
You don’t need private medical insurance to access care at Fortius. If you’re paying for your own treatment, our team will explain the costs clearly and provide a personalised quote before you decide whether to go ahead.
Our specialists
Find a clinic near you
Fortius Clinic London
Our 79,000 sq ft, seven-story, private hospital on Wigmore Street has 39 en-suite inpatient rooms, consultation and treatment rooms, and a physiotherapy suite.
The hospital has a high-spec imaging suite fully equipped with an MRI, CT scanner and X-ray machine. There are three state-of-the-art operating theatres, two anaesthetic rooms and a recovery bay.
Fortius Clinic London has two Mako robots for hip and knee joint replacements.
- 66 Wigmore Street W1U 2SB
- 0203 195 2442
- Outpatient times are Monday to Friday from 8.00am to 8.00pm.
- Sports & Exercise Medicine
- Snow Injuries Clinic
- Tendon Clinic
- MRI Scan
- Ultrasound
- X-Ray
- Physician services
- Rheumatology
- CT Scan
- Imaging guided injections
- Physiotherapy
- MAKO Robotic Joint Replacement
Fortius Clinic City
Our City Clinic is conveniently located between Bank and Monument stations, within the historic and financial heart of London. At our modern, two-floor facility we have nine consulting rooms, spacious waiting areas, well equipped treatment rooms and an imaging centre.
Explore our City Clinic with our virtual tour.
If you are travelling by Tube, our closest underground stations are Bank and Monument, exit 6 for King William Street.
Should you be travelling by car, the closest parking is a three minute drive away at NCP Car Park London Vintry Thames Exchange. If you are attending clinic on a weekday, please be aware that we are based in the congestion charge zone.
- 75 King William Street EC4N 7BE
- 0203 195 2442
- Outpatient times are Monday to Friday from 8.00am to 8.00pm.
- Snow Injuries Clinic
- Tendon Clinic
- Sports & Exercise Medicine
- MRI Scan
- Ultrasound
- X-Ray
- Physician services
- Rheumatology
Fortius Clinic Wimbledon
Our Wimbledon clinic houses a state-of-the-art imaging centre with a 3T MRI and X-ray scanners, Ultrasound, seven consulting rooms, two spacious waiting areas and well equipped treatment rooms all located on one level, ensuring easy accessibility for all patients.
Our partnership with Spire St Anthony’s Hospital allows us to provide orthopaedic surgery closer to our clinic. We treat a full range of conditions and perform joint replacement surgery using the latest Mako robotic assisted technology.
The building at 22 Worple Road has steps leading up to the front entrance. If you require assistance please inform us before your arrival by calling ahead on 020 3195 2442
- 22 Worple Road SW19 4DD
- 0203 195 2442
- Outpatient times are Monday to Friday from 8.00am to 8.00pm.
- Snow Injuries Clinic
- MRI Scan
- Ultrasound
- X-Ray
Fortius Clinic Marylebone
Our Marylebone Clinic is conveniently located in the historic area between Baker Street and Marylebone High Street, just off Manchester Square, home to the iconic Wallace Collection. We have seven consulting rooms, private waiting areas on each floor, well equipped treatment rooms and diagnostic imaging.
- 17 Fitzhardinge StreetW1H 6EQ
- 020 3195 2442
- Outpatient times are Monday to Friday from 8.00am to 8.00pm.
- MRI Scan
- Ultrasound
- X-Ray
- Physician services
- Rheumatology
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