The ankle joint is a hinge joint formed between the bones of the lower leg (tibia and fibula) and a bone of the foot (talus). It allows the foot to bend upwards and downwards and also facilitates a small amount of rotation.

The joint’s stability comes from the structural arrangement of the bones and the surrounding muscles and ligaments. Ligaments provide stability by preventing too much side to side movement.

 

Sprain

On the inside of the ankle the joint is stabilized by a thick, strong fibrous ligament called the deltoid ligament.

On the outside of the ankle, the joint is stabilized by three smaller ligaments. Sprains to any of the outside ligaments occur when the ankle is twisted inwards under pressure. These sprains account for more than 80% of all ankle sprains.

 

Strain

As the ankle twists the peroneal (lower leg) muscles and tendons are overstretched. Blood vessels are ruptured, the ankle and foot swell, causing further pain and incapacity.

 

Fracture

A complete tear of all ligaments may result in a dislocation of the ankle joint and an accompanying fracture. A Pott's fracture is a fracture to one of the bony parts of the ankle called the malleoli. Fractures can occur on the outside or the inside of the lower leg.

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Pain relief - place pads where they are comfortable and most effective for pain relief

Injury healing - pads are placed at the location of the injury

Muscle rehabilitation - the generic advice is to place one pad at the top of the muscle and the second pad one-third along the length of the muscle you wish to strengthen. You may need to consult your physiotherapist for specific guidance on which muscles to target.