Therapeutic goals
Reduction of anterior ankle pain and inflammation.
Improvement of joint mobility, particularly in dorsiflexion.
Restoration of ankle stability.
Strengthening of the ankle stabilising muscles.
Improved neuromuscular control and proprioception.
Prevention of recurrence and a gradual return to sport.
Techniques used
Pain-relieving physiotherapy modalities as indicated. Massage therapy and myofascial release of the periarticular muscles. Relaxation work on the anterior and posterior compartments.
Ankle joint mobilisations (talocrural and subtalar). Specific dorsiflexion work. Stretching of the triceps surae, fibular muscles and tibialis anterior.
Progressive strengthening of the stabilising muscles: tibialis anterior, tibialis posterior, fibular muscles, triceps surae, intrinsic foot muscles.
Single-leg balance exercises. Work on wobble boards, balance cushions or a balance board. Dynamic ankle stability exercises.
Gradual retraining of walking, then running. Work on foot-strike control and stability during changes of direction. Advice on warming up and joint mobility.
Exercise programme
- Ankle dorsiflexion against elastic band resistance
- Resisted plantar flexion
- Foot inversion and eversion with an elastic band
- Calf raises on both legs, then on one leg
- Eccentric triceps surae work
- Controlled squat with ankle mobility work
- Step-up / step-down for functional work
Protocol details
Similar protocols
Peroneal tendinopathy
Peroneal (fibularis) tendinopathy (peroneus longus and brevis). Functional rehabilitation of the ankle and foot, addressing…
Lateral ankle sprain
Lateral ankle sprain. Functional rehabilitation of the ankle, addressing the biomechanical and proprioceptive factors of…
Tibialis posterior tendinopathy
Tibialis posterior tendinopathy. Functional rehabilitation of the foot and ankle, addressing the associated biomechanical factors.