Massage Techniques for Sprained Ankles

An ankle sprain is a common sports injury when the ankle ligaments are stretched or torn. Using a massage therapist who can massage a sprained ankle is an effective treatment option that can be implemented after the initial injury phase has passed. Massaging will help reduce swelling, minimize pain, and improve healing time. Read on to learn more about the best ankle massage techniques and how they can work for you.

Is it Safe to Massage an Ankle Sprain?

After an ankle sprain, it's important to know when to safely begin massage therapy to prevent further injury. For the first 24 to 72 hours, you should avoid massaging your ankles. A trained massage therapist can put their hands on your ankles, but they shouldn't give you an actual massage. It should only be touched lightly as it can be beneficial for lymphatic circulation. After the first 72 hours, you can safely request an ankle massage. But before you start, you need to make sure you don't break a bone, or tear a ligament or tendon. Your doctor may order an X-ray after an ankle injury so you can get a massage. Once you're ventilated, your massage therapist will perform a massage to speed healing and prevent scar tissue from developing in the ankle joint. Proceed slowly and if you don't feel any pain, you can continue with deeper massages that work the calf muscles.

Massage Therapy Techniques

Recovering from an ankle sprain can be a long and painful process. Adding massage therapy to your treatment plan can help you heal faster and get back to the activities you love. Start by finding a highly trained massage therapist or physical therapist licensed to perform the massage. Now is not the time for self-massage. Ankle injuries are serious and improper massage techniques can cause more injuries.

Therapeutic Massage

Therapeutic massage can be used after 72 hours is recommended. If you have a reverse sprain caused by your ankle rolling inward, your ligaments will likely be treated with ligaments and tendons. The massage therapist treats the anterior fascia, fascia, or posterior fascia. The massage will be done for about 20 seconds in each position. If your massage therapist doesn't know which ankle ligaments are involved in the injury, all ligaments can be treated. It is still a safe treatment. As with all other forms of massage, if you feel pain, let the therapist know so they can tailor the treatment.

Sports Massage

Sports massage will help you maintain your flexibility and range of motion during your recovery. Typically, the therapist will apply a sports massage to your calf muscles rather than directly to the injured ligaments. The massage technique is similar to standard Swedish massage but focuses on sports-related issues. Your therapists will work on muscle stiffness and joints in your legs. This will also help drain fluid from your ankle. Injured ankles are prone to instability, with the help of a professional massage therapist and strengthening exercises, you will be free of new injuries and you will be back to playing sports.

Massage Tips

The rehabilitation period after an ankle sprain can be frustrating. Pain, bruising, and an inability to perform weight-bearing motions take their toll after a while. To help you through the healing process, here are some massage tips that you need to keep in mind during your recovery.

• TENS Therapy

TENS (transcutaneous electrical stimulation) uses low levels of electrical stimulation to reduce pain and improve healing time. TENS therapy units are safe to use at home in between massage therapy sessions.

• Less is More

Remember to avoid direct pressure massage for the first 24-72 hours. Your ankle is still swollen, and too much pressure during the acute phase can be both painful and harmful. Light massage, such as lymphatic massage, may be safe. But it's best to talk to your doctor or physical therapist for relief.

• Speak Up

Ankle massage should never be painful. Don't be afraid to let your massage therapist know if the pressure is too much. Massaging too much can lead to ankle instability, be an advocate for yourself and stay safe.

Massage for a Safe Recovery

Sprained ankle massage is a safe and effective adjuvant treatment for sprained ankles. This will remove fluid from your tissues, improving healing time and reducing overall pain. We recommend working with a highly qualified massage therapist who specializes in sports injuries just like in Winston Hills Herbal and Massage Centre. And as always, talk to your doctor before starting any new treatment to make sure it's safe for your condition. If you’re looking for a massage centre that provides you with the best massage services with the best prices, Winston Hills Herbal and Massage Centre  is your right place. Our licensed massage therapists do Swedish, sports massage, deep tissue massage, and more! Winston Hills Herbal and Massage are owned and operated by the sole practitioner Frank Mammoliti. Frank Mammoliti is a professional massage therapist and is a member of the Australian Traditional Medicine Society and his remedial massage service is accepted by most private health funds. In addition to providing excellent massage therapy, we are excited to announce that Winston Hills Herbal and Massage Centre has now been integrated with Hicaps! This integration allows for a more streamlined payment process for our clients. So, if you're ready to experience the benefits of massage therapy, book your appointment today and enjoy the convenience of our Hicaps integration. Don't wait any longer to take care of your physical and mental health!

Contact us now and book an appointment:
☎️ 0407 192 708
✉️ [email protected]
📌 43 Langdon Rd Winston Hills Baulkham Hills, Sydney NSW 2153.