Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability. Number 1 Seeded Tennis Player.
Andy Murray’s straight set win at the Australian Open 2017 over Russian competitor Andrey Rublev showed an old persistent injury to his right ankle. The concerned world number one shows how peak performance can be reached even with injuries weighing players down.
Competitive, professional sports players can make some of the worst patients for Podiatrists. Their income and career is based around a schedule such as the tennis major’s circuit. This means that treatment plans must be tailored and compromised around players to the point where the outcome is often an under-done rehab plan.
Andy Murray may be able to play out the rest of the Australian Open with the ongoing use of his tri-lock ankle brace. But, as with any damage to an old sprain, the structures will continue to lose integrity. More information on chronic lateral ankle instability and the importance of proper rehabilitation after an ankle sprain can be found here:
The nerves, ligaments and muscles all work together in the ankle to prevent any excessive rolling movement as seen in an ankle sprain. When one or more of these protective systems do not work up to scratch the ankle has a tendency to feel unstable and the chances of pain and further injuries are seen.
Treatment options for ankle sprains range depending on a number of factors including, length of injury and level of instability. Using a brace or an orthotic device can work well to reduce motion and therefore inflammation as well as decreasing the risk of further injuries. Exercises that focus on balancing and specifically on the local ankle muscles and nerves can train your muscles to protect other damaged structures.
For more information on ankle sprains book an appointment online with one of our friendly Sports Podiatrists.
