Ankle Strain​


​Ankles take a lot of weight.  Nearly all of it, to be exact.
They need to be incredibly strong to do so, yet also be mobile enough that we can adapt to walking on uneven ground, or a slope. 
The only body parts that take more strain (while we are up and about) are the feet themselves, which is why heel and/or arch pain is another common presenting complaint.

The most common ankle injury is a lateral strain, or rolled ankle.  This is where the weight of the body falls outside of the ankle and foot.  Without significant trauma, it is much rarer for the body weight the ankle to roll inwards (although it can happen).
This obviously stresses (and, in worse case scenarios, tears) the ligaments and muscles that help to support the outer ankle.
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However, another consequence is the compression and compaction of the inside of the ankle. This 'jamming up' of the inner ankle can seriously impact on the gait cycle​ (i.e. how you walk).
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This can slow down healing.  Therefore, working through the foot and both sides of the ankle, as well as the knee and hip complexes can significantly speed up recovery times.