Ankle sprains are the most common injuries sustained playing netball. Regardless of the severity of the sprain – Grade 1 (minor) to Grade 3 (severe) – it requires time to heal and adequate rehabilitation to gain full function.
Once you have sprained your ankle, it is important to understand it will never be 100%.
75% of people who have sprained their ankle will do it again within a year.
How not to fall into this category?
- Seek physiotherapy treatment to gain full range of motion and be provided with a strength and proprioception (balance) program
- Tape/Brace on return to train/play
Taping
- Is very effective at restricting excessive movement leading to ankle sprains
- Rigid sports tape costs around $10 per roll; you will get 3 – 4 ankles per roll
- Some people are allergic to sports tape. Hypoallergenic tape can be applied underneath if needed.
- Must be applied correctly to do its job (come in and we can teach you how to tape your ankle the right way) or watch our video:
Bracing
- Can be as effective as taping in providing support to restrict excessive movement leading to ankle sprains
- Must be semi-rigid to provide support, not an elasticised brace
- Good braces cost around $50 and should last multiple seasons
- Ease of application (young players can put it on themselves)
“If I have never injured my ankle should I tape/brace?”
- If you have been told you are hypermobile (double jointed, overly flexible), clumsy or have weak ankles
- Bracing/taping can be used for prophylactic (preventative) reasons, giving extra support to your ankles’ normal protective mechanisms
All netballers need to be aware that they are at risk of sustaining an ankle injury. If you have sprained your ankle in the past you most definitely should be bracing/taping your ankle. You should also be participating in an active exercise program to increase strength and proprioception around your ankle.
Still unsure?
Come in and let one of our Physiotherapists assess your ankle and determine the best course of action for you.