Inversion and Eversion Ankle Strains (Rolled or Twisted Ankle) in Mineola, NY
MULLIGAN CONCEPT
Inversion and Eversion Ankle Strains
Most ankle injuries happen when the foot rolls inward (an inversion strain). Less often, the foot twists outward (an eversion strain), which can injure the inner ankle or the ligaments above the ankle and usually takes longer to heal. At Enhanced Physical Therapy in Mineola, we use Mulligan fibular taping, ankle mobilization and balance training, including for ankles that keep rolling.
Certified Mulligan Practitioner Over 10 Years of Experience
Our clinics director is a Certified Mulligan Practitioner (CMP) with over a decade
of experience using this evidence-based approach. Each treatment is customized to
your specific diagnosis and movement limitations to achieve optimal outcomes.
Common signs of inversion and eversion ankle strains
- Pain and swelling on the outside of the ankle after rolling it inward
- Pain on the inside of the ankle, or above it, after twisting outward
- An ankle that keeps rolling or feels unstable
- Pain on uneven ground
- Avoiding sport because you don't trust the ankle
What causes it
Stepping off a curb, landing on someone's foot and sudden changes of direction are common causes. After a sprain, ligaments may heal loose and balance reactions slow down, so the ankle rolls again.
How we examine it
Before any hands-on treatment, we ask about your health and screen for anything that needs a doctor first. We check for fractures and high ankle sprains that need imaging, assess ligament laxity, ankle motion, balance and hop tests, and test whether a fibula glide or tape makes the ankle feel more stable.
Mulligan techniques we use
- Fibular repositioning tape. Mulligan tape that holds the fibula in a helpful position during activity.
- Fibular glide MWM. A gentle glide of the lower fibula while you move the ankle.
- Weight-bearing ankle MWM. Restores ankle bending, which supports balance.
- Inversion and eversion MWM. Glides at the rearfoot while you turn the foot in or out.
What the research says
Randomized trials in people whose ankles keep rolling found ankle MWM improved ankle bending and balance, and a review rates this evidence as moderate quality. A crossover trial in basketball players studied Mulligan fibular tape. Ankle guidelines strongly recommend balance and strength training, so we always include it.
What else is in your treatment plan
Your plan includes MWM, taping, progressive balance, hop, strength and agility training and a staged return to sport.
How long recovery takes
Inversion strains often recover in 2 to 8 weeks. Eversion and high ankle sprains can take 6 to 12 weeks. Ankles that keep rolling usually need 6 to 8 weeks of consistent training.
When to see a doctor first
Call your doctor, or get urgent care, if you have any of the following:
- Unable to bear weight right after the injury
- Bony tenderness at the ankle or the outer edge of the foot
- Pain and swelling above the ankle after twisting outward (possible high ankle sprain)
- Numbness or a cold foot
- Calf pain and swelling
Inversion and eversion ankle strains treatment near Mineola
Enhanced Physical Therapy is at 137 Willis Ave, Suite 100, Mineola, NY 11501, a short walk from NYU Langone Hospital-Long Island. We see patients from Mineola, Garden City, Williston Park, New Hyde Park, Carle Place, Westbury, Albertson and Manhasset, and across central Nassau County.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my ankle keep rolling?
Usually a mix of loose ligaments, slower balance reactions and stiffness after a previous sprain.
What is a high ankle sprain?
An injury to the ligaments above the ankle, usually from twisting outward. It often takes longer to heal.
Should I wear a brace or tape?
A brace or tape can help during sport while you rebuild balance and strength.
Can physical therapy help an unstable ankle?
Many people regain a stable ankle with balance and strength training plus manual therapy. If not, we discuss a surgeon's opinion.
Related pages
- Mulligan Technique in Mineola
- Ankle Sprains and Stiffness
- Shin and Lower Leg Joint Stiffness (Tibiofibular)
- Compression and Taping
Written and clinically reviewed by Jacob Kurian, PT, MSPT, CMP, DPT, Certified Mulligan Practitioner, Enhanced Physical Therapy, Mineola NY. Last updated October 14, 2026.