Sprained Ankles and Massage Therapy

The cross friction massage technique is used to treat sprained ankles.

This technique helps to speed healing and prevents scar tissue from forming. A sprained ankle results when the ankle ligaments stretch or even tear and is one of the most common types of ankle injury, particularly in sports. Cross friction massage applied to the injured ligaments during the acute phase, after about five days from when the ankle is sprained, will help to prevent scar tissue from forming.

Below are some steps to be able to treat this yourself at home, although it is highly recommended to have a Registered Massage Therapist perform a proper treatment on your ankle.

1. Wait at least 48 to 72 hours to perform the massage; this should only be performed in the sub-acute and acute stage.
2. Ensure that there are no broken bones, open wounds, infections or anything that would prevent you from physical contact with the injury.
3. Sit in a comfortable position. Stretch your ligaments as demonstrated in the image below
4. Apply a deep, direct pressure on the ligament using a single finger. Begin the massage at a point that is slightly away from the sprained area, and then work your way gradually towards it. Massage deeply back and forth ACROSS the ligament, not along its length. You should feel the ligament under the skin.
5. Slowly begin to massage even deeper, but within the limits of bearable pain. Continue the massage for five to ten minutes
6. Tape the ankle or use an ankle support.
7. Repeat every OTHER day, the ankle will need time to recover after the massage.

Source: CCMH

RIVERA FOOT & ANKLE: At Orlando H.Rivera DPM, our priority is to deliver quality care to informed patients in a comfortable and convenient setting. When you have problems with your feet, you need to turn to a podiatrist who listens and responds… an experienced doctor who knows the field and can effectively diagnose and treat your needs… a friendly physician who counsels you on the best ways to maintain and improve your health. Our physician(s) meet all these criteria. Plus, you benefit from a dedicated team of trained professionals who give you the individualized attention you deserve.

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