Chronic Ankle Pain Holding You Back? It Doesn’t Have to Be This Way
Every Step Feels Off—And You’re Wondering If It’ll Ever Get Better
You twisted your ankle months ago. Maybe even years.
It seemed minor at the time. A bit of swelling, some rest, maybe an ice pack.
But now you’re still feeling it.
A dull ache when you walk too far.
Sharp pain if you pivot suddenly.
That awkward stiffness first thing in the morning.
You’re not sure if it’s still the same injury—or something worse.
But you are sure of one thing: it’s holding you back.
Here’s the good news: chronic ankle pain is common—but it’s not permanent.
Not if you treat it properly.
What Exactly Is Chronic Ankle Pain?
Any ankle pain lasting longer than 6–8 weeks—especially after a sprain or injury—falls into the “chronic” category.
At Physiotherapy Ballincollig, we see it in people who’ve:
Repeatedly rolled or twisted their ankle
Returned to activity too soon after injury
Overcompensated and developed poor movement patterns
Never fully strengthened or stabilised the joint post-injury
The result? Pain that lingers. Mobility that suffers. And confidence that fades.
Why It’s Still Hurting
Contrary to what you might’ve heard, time alone doesn’t heal all wounds.
Especially with ankles.
Here’s why your pain might still be hanging around:
1. Ligaments Never Fully Healed
A sprained ankle stretches ligaments. If they weren’t fully rehabilitated, they remain loose and vulnerable—making re-injury (and pain) more likely.
2. Weak Surrounding Muscles
If your calf, foot, or hip muscles aren’t doing their job, your ankle takes the load. That leads to stress and irritation every time you move.
3. Joint Stiffness
After an injury, scar tissue or inflammation can reduce range of motion. A stiff ankle forces other joints to compensate—and pain follows.
4. Poor Proprioception
Your body forgets how to balance on that ankle. You wobble, twist, or avoid loading it altogether—keeping the pain cycle going.
So… What Will Actually Fix It?
Let’s be clear: painkillers, ice, or “just taking it easy” won’t solve chronic ankle pain.
But smart, focused rehab will.
At our Sports Injury Clinic Ballincollig, here’s how we do it:
✅ Full Biomechanical Assessment
We look at how you walk, run, and move.
We assess joint mobility, muscle strength, and balance control—so we know exactly where the problem lies.
✅ Mobilise and Release Stiff Tissue
If your ankle joint is stiff or the surrounding fascia is tight, we use manual therapy to restore movement and relieve tension.
✅ Strengthen What’s Weak
Through tailored exercises, we rebuild the ankle’s support system:
Calf raises
Balance drills
Resistance band work
Functional strength movements (like lunges or step-downs)
✅ Re-train Your Stability
We help your brain reconnect with your foot and ankle, using proprioception drills that sharpen your balance and boost confidence with every step.
✅ Return-to-Activity Planning
Whether it’s walking, running, sport or hiking—we’ll guide your return safely and gradually, so your ankle doesn’t get overwhelmed again.
Real Results. Real Relief.
We’ve helped hundreds go from limping to living—pain-free and fully active.
You don’t need to live in fear of re-injury.
You don’t have to avoid stairs, walks, or workouts.
And you definitely don’t need to accept chronic ankle pain as your “new normal.”
Call us today or book online with Chartered Physiotherapist Cork.
Let’s assess what’s holding your ankle back—and map out your personalised rehab plan.
Because the right support can help you stand strong again.
Your recovery starts here.
