An ankle can feel better during normal walking before it is ready for running, jumping or rapid direction changes. Return to sport is safer when the ankle has regained enough mobility, strength, balance and tolerance for repeated impact.
Key points
- Walking and stairs should be reasonably controlled before running progression.
- Calf strength and single-leg balance should be rebuilt.
- Hopping, landing and change-of-direction tasks can be added progressively.
- Monitor pain and swelling during the session and later that day or the next morning.
What a physiotherapy assessment can add
A physiotherapist can assess ankle range, ligament symptoms, calf capacity, balance and sport-specific tasks to identify what remains below the required level.
Practical next steps
Start with a manageable walk-jog or low-volume running exposure before adding speed, hills, cutting or full team training.
When to seek medical care
Repeated giving way, persistent large swelling, inability to hop or load the ankle, or new sharp pain after reinjury should be reassessed before return to sport.
