Ankle injuries can be frustrating and debilitating, making performing even the simplest activities difficult. However, with the help of physical therapy, patients can regain their strength, mobility, and function. At Twin Boro Physical Therapy, we are committed to providing advanced, evidence-based care to meet each patient’s unique needs. With a personalized approach, our experienced therapists utilize various treatment techniques to help patients achieve speedy ankle injury recovery.
Physical Therapy Treatment Types for Ankle Injuries
Manual therapy – Manual therapy involves hands-on techniques performed by a physical therapist or another qualified healthcare professional. Manual therapy aims to improve joint mobility, reduce pain, and increase range of motion by utilizing techniques such as:
- Massage – Deep tissue massage, myofascial release, and trigger point therapy reduce muscle tension and improve circulation.
- Joint mobilization – Gentle joint movements improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness.
- Manipulation – High-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts applied to a joint restore normal joint movement.
Exercise – Therapeutic exercise improves strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the ankle and surrounding muscles. Therapeutic exercises improve ankle function, reduce pain, and prevent re-injury. Activities may include stretching, strengthening, and range of motion exercises.
Modalities – Modalities are therapeutic techniques or interventions physical therapists apply to promote healing, pain relief, and functional improvement. Here are some common physical therapy modalities:
- Heat therapy – Applying heat to the affected area increases blood flow and reduces muscle spasms.
- Ice therapy – Applying ice to the affected area reduces inflammation and pain.
- Ultrasound therapy – High-frequency sound waves generate heat to promote healing.
- Electrical stimulation – Applying electrical currents to the affected area reduces pain and improves muscle function.
Education – A Twin Boro physical therapist will work with you to develop an individualized home exercise program to help maintain progress outside of therapy. The home exercise program may include exercises, stretches, and other activities the patient can perform independently. Your physical therapist may also provide education on proper posture, body mechanics, and ergonomics to help prevent future ankle injuries.
Benefits of Physical Therapy for Ankle Injuries
One of the primary benefits of physical therapy is that it can reduce pain and inflammation in the ankle, which can be debilitating and limit your ability to perform daily activities. Ankle injuries often cause stiffness and limited range of motion, affecting your ability to walk, run, or even stand for prolonged periods. With a customized exercise program targeting the ankle’s muscles and joints, physical therapy will improve strength, flexibility, and mobility.
In addition to reducing pain and improving mobility, physical therapy also helps to improve function. This means it will help you perform everyday activities with less pain and difficulty, such as walking up and down stairs, getting in and out of a car, or performing household chores. Physical therapy can also help patients avoid surgery in some cases. In cases where surgery is necessary, our physical therapists help patients prepare for and recover from surgery, reducing the risk of complications and promoting a faster recovery.
Ready to Get Started?
At Twin Boro, we believe in working with our patients to enhance and optimize their function and overall quality of life. Our team of highly qualified therapists will work with you to alleviate your symptoms and get you back to doing the things you love! You can schedule your first appointment by calling 732.554.0775 or visiting our website at https://twinboro.com/.
