Injury protocol

Ankle instability

Ankle instability needs a staged plan that matches tissue healing, pain behavior, and progressive rehab loading in the ankle.

Condition summary

Category: Joint Disorder

Body region: Ankle

Common in: Cutting sports, Falls, Repetitive joint loading, Ankle, Joint

Recovery phases

Acute support (0-5 days)

Goals: Reduce irritability in Ankle instability, Protect tissue quality and appetite, Build the next rehab step safely

Nutrition focus: Protein adequacy, Hydration, Weight management without under-eating, Collagen support before loading

Meal examples: Greek yogurt, berries, and oats / Rice bowl with fish or tofu / Bean stew with vegetables and olive oil

Repair and reload (5 days to 6 weeks)

Goals: Reduce irritability in Ankle instability, Protect tissue quality and appetite, Build the next rehab step safely

Nutrition focus: Protein adequacy, Hydration, Weight management without under-eating, Collagen support before loading

Meal examples: Greek yogurt, berries, and oats / Rice bowl with fish or tofu / Bean stew with vegetables and olive oil

Return phase (6+ weeks)

Goals: Progress loading tolerance for Ankle instability, Restore movement confidence and function, Prepare for return to work, sport, or daily activity

Nutrition focus: Protein adequacy, Hydration, Weight management without under-eating, Collagen support before loading

Meal examples: Greek yogurt, berries, and oats / Rice bowl with fish or tofu / Bean stew with vegetables and olive oil

Helpful recovery links