Rehabilitation After Ankle Ligament Reconstruction: How One Netball Player Returned to Elite Competition

Introduction
Recovering from ankle ligament reconstruction can be a long and challenging journey — especially for athletes competing at a high level. In this case study, we detail how one dedicated netball player worked with McFerran Physio to regain strength, agility, and performance after surgery.

Patient Background
Our client, a skilled netball player in her 20s who competes at a strong amateur level, sustained a severe ankle injury that required surgical reconstruction of her ankle ligaments.

When she first presented to us, she was:

• Four weeks post-op
• In a walking boot
• On crutches
• Experiencing significant pain, swelling, and limited range of motion.

Her short-term goal: walk pain-free.
Her long-term goal: return to competitive netball.

Rehabilitation Journey

Phase 1: Early Rehab

• Manual therapy to reduce swelling and desensitise scar tissue.
• Gait re-education: two crutches → one crutch → unaided walking.
• Gentle range-of-motion exercises.

Phase 2: Strength & Balance

• Simple foot and ankle and calf strengthening with resistance bands.
• Single-leg balance and proprioceptive drills.
• Load progression: single-leg calf raises → weighted single-leg calf raises (soleus & gastrocnemius).

Phase 3: Plyometrics & Sport-Specific Drills

• Force absorption: landing on two legs → one leg → lateral landings.
• Progressive jumping and hopping.
• Running drills: straight-line running → change of direction at increasing angles and speeds.
• Chaotic movement drills to simulate game scenarios.

Outcome
Through structured progression and close monitoring, the athlete achieved all rehab milestones and returned to full training and elite netball competition — with no setbacks or lingering symptoms.

Conclusion

Rehab after ankle surgery requires patience, expert guidance, and attention to detail. If you want to optimise your recovery and return to sport safely, McFerran Physio offers personalised programmes for all levels of athletes.
Contact us to learn more.