The Most Common Ankle Injury — and How to Manage It Properly

Ankle injuries are among the most common musculoskeletal injuries we see — whether from sports, walking on uneven ground, or simply taking a misstep. But do you know which part of your ankle is most often injured?

It’s a small but crucial structure called the ATFL, or anterior talofibular ligament.

The ATFL connects your fibula (the smaller bone on the outside of your lower leg) to the talus bone in your ankle. It helps keep your ankle stable, especially when you’re walking, running, or quickly changing direction. Unfortunately, because of its location and the forces placed on it during a typical ankle roll, the ATFL is the most commonly injured ligament in the ankle.

Why Proper Care Matters

An ATFL injury — usually part of what we call an ankle sprain — can range from mild stretching to a complete tear.

What many people don’t realise is that if it’s not managed properly in the early stages, an injured ATFL can heal poorly. This often leads to chronic ankle instability, where the ankle feels weak or gives way easily. Repeated sprains become more likely, and pain or swelling can linger.

That’s why the first few weeks after an ankle injury are so important.

What to Do in the First 3 Weeks

The way you care for your ankle in the first 3 weeks can make a big difference in how well it heals.

In this quick, easy-to-follow video, I walk you through:

✅ What the ATFL actually does and why it’s prone to injury✅ What to expect in the first few weeks after a sprain✅ The best practices to protect and rehabilitate your ankle in this crucial early stage

The tips I share will help reduce pain and swelling, support the ligament as it heals, and set you up for a stronger, more stable ankle in the long run.

Don’t Ignore Lingering Symptoms

If you’ve already sprained your ankle and it still feels unstable, weak, or swollen weeks or months later, you may need further assessment and rehab to restore full strength and stability.

Feel free to reach out to our clinic if you’d like help evaluating your ankle and creating a personalised recovery plan.

Your ankles carry you through every step of your day — let’s take care of them!