An ankle dislocation is a serious injury that occurs when the bones that form the ankle joint are forced out of their normal alignment. It’s often accompanied by ligament damage, fractures, or soft tissue injuries, and requires immediate medical attention. If you’ve experienced an ankle dislocation, here’s what you need to know about the causes, physiotherapy treatment, recovery timeline, and your potential to return to sports.
What Causes an Ankle Dislocation?
Ankle dislocations usually result from high-impact trauma or severe twisting forces. Common causes include:
- Sports injuries, particularly in football, basketball, netball, and gymnastics
- Falls or missteps, especially from a height or on uneven ground
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Severe ankle sprains that overstretch or rupture the surrounding ligaments
People with a history of ankle instability or previous ankle sprains may be at higher risk.
What to Expect From Physiotherapy After an Ankle Dislocation
Physiotherapy is essential for regaining strength, mobility, and function after an ankle dislocation. Once the joint has been realigned and immobilised (with or without surgery), your physiotherapist will guide you through a staged recovery process:
1. Acute Phase (0–6 Weeks)
- Protection and immobilisation (e.g. moon boot or cast)
- Pain management techniques (ice, elevation, gentle range of motion)
- Education on safe mobility and weight-bearing
- Prevention of stiffness in surrounding joints (e.g. toes, knee, hip)
2. Subacute Phase (6–12 Weeks)
- Gradual reintroduction of weight-bearing
- Manual therapy to restore ankle mobility
- Targeted strengthening of the ankle, foot, and lower leg
- Balance and proprioception retraining to prevent future injuries
3. Functional & Sports-Specific Phase (3–6 Months)
- Advanced strengthening and plyometric exercises
- Agility, cutting, and jumping drills (for athletes)
- Return-to-sport assessments and injury prevention strategies
- Guidance on appropriate footwear and bracing if needed
How Long Does It Take to Recover From an Ankle Dislocation?
Recovery time after an ankle dislocation depends on the severity of the injury and whether surgery was required. On average:
- Mild to moderate dislocations (no fracture): 8–12 weeks
- Severe dislocations (with fracture or surgery): 3–6 months or longer
- Return to high-impact sports: Often takes 4–6 months, depending on healing and rehab progress
Your physiotherapist will tailor your rehab program and progress you based on strength, mobility, and stability milestones—not just time alone.
Can I Return to Sports After an Ankle Dislocation?
Yes—most people can return to sports after an ankle dislocation, especially with proper physiotherapy and injury prevention strategies in place. Return-to-sport testing will assess your readiness to safely resume activities like running, jumping, and directional changes.
At After Hours Physio, we offer expert rehabilitation for ankle injuries including dislocations, sprains, and post-surgical recovery. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or an elite athlete, we’re here to help you recover safely and confidently—even after hours or in the comfort of your home.
Need Urgent Physiotherapy After an Ankle Injury?
If you’re dealing with pain, swelling, or instability after an ankle injury, don’t wait. Our mobile physiotherapy team can assess, treat, and support your recovery plan—7 days a week, after hours.
📍 Serving patients across Blackburn, Kew, and Eastern Melbourne
📞 Call us now or book an urgent home visit online.