Ankle Injuries and Sprains in Dancers

Featuring: Dr. Larissa Roux, Sports Medicine Physician

Duration: 1 minute

Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries faced by dancers, particularly a sprain to the outer or lateral stabilizing structures of the ankle. It often occurs when the foot inadvertently rolls in, maybe from landing a jump or a leap. Symptoms such as swelling, bruising, and an inability to bear weight, together with pain, suggests a disruption to the integrity of the stabilizing ligaments on the outside aspect of the ankle.
Ankle sprain treatment depends on the severity of the sprain. As with other injuries about a joint rest, ice, compression and elevation of the joint are the cornerstones of therapy. The severity of the sprain will dictate the amount of protection and immobilization that is required for the ligaments to heal.
After the acute phase, a program of stretching and strengthening is very important in order to restore the mobility, balance and strength of the ankle joint itself. In addition to physiotherapy, some of the solutions during treatment while one recovers from this injury as well as for prevention include taping and bracing.
If you feel you have suffered this injury or have any further other questions about lateral ankle sprains, please don't hesitate to contact your local sport medicine physician or family physician.

Presenter: Dr. Larissa Roux, Sports Medicine Physician, Vancouver, BC

Local Practitioners: Sports Medicine Physician