Ankle dysfunction is very common in Australia and can be secondary to either gradual onset or acute traumatic factors.

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Typically, ankle sprains are very common amongst people whom are active - in particular those that play sport with contact or regular change of direction. The 'ankle' is a complex region of the body that includes a number of joints, ligaments and muscles regularly disrupted by force being applied through the region.

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Ankle pain is often complex and requires an in depth assessment by an AHPRA registered health professional to determine the cause of the issue. Not all ankle issues require scans however it is common for them to require diagnostic scans to further assess the significance of any damage.

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Issues with the ankle region can of course be secondary to longer standing pathologies - such as arthritis. Both gradual onset, and acute ankle issues should be taken seriously as function through the ankle region dictates how our lower limbs operate when weightbearing.

 

Typically, physiotherapy is beneficical to improving or managing ankle health and alleviating pain, instability, or gait issues associated. Physiotherapy for ankle injuries can include hands on treatment methods, and exercise training to build support for the region.
 

Further reading (click): Management of foot/ankle osteoarthritis by Australian general practitioners: an analysis of national patient-encounter records - ScienceDirect

(Paterson et al., 2018)