Ankle Pain in Basketball? See a Sports Doctor in Melbourne
November 2025
By Essendon Sports Medicine Team
Ankle pain is one of the most common problems for basketball players.
Whether you’re playing at a local rec centre or competing in a semi-professional league, ankle injuries can be frustrating.
They can keep you off the court, slow your performance, and in some cases, lead to long-term damage if left untreated.
In Melbourne, basketball is a fast-growing sport. With more people playing socially, in weekend leagues, and at competitive levels, the risk of ankle injury is rising.
But many players don’t know when to seek help or who to see. Some ignore the pain, hoping it will go away.
Others try to manage it with rest, ice, or painkillers, but still find themselves getting injured again.
This is where a sports doctor comes in. If you’ve rolled your ankle more than once, or if your pain isn’t going away, a sports doctor can help you recover properly and reduce the risk of future problems.
What is a Sports Doctor?
A sports doctor is a medical doctor who has extra training in sports and exercise medicine. They specialise in diagnosing and managing injuries related to physical activity. Unlike surgeons, they focus on non-surgical treatment.
There are 2 types of sports doctors:
- Sports Medicine Physicians, who are the experts in their field and specialists. Chris Lim & Samantha May are specialist physicians.
- Sports Medicine Registrars, who are on the Australian College of Sports Exercise Physician training program to become a specialist Physician.
Their goal is to help you recover safely and return to sport at the right time.
Sports doctors often treat active people of all levels — from professional athletes to weekend players. They understand the physical demands of sport and can tailor your treatment to suit your needs. They’re also skilled at managing long-term injuries that don’t respond to basic treatments.
At Essendon Sports Medicine, our sports doctors see many basketballers each week.
Most come in with ankle injuries that haven't healed properly, or pain that returns every time they play.
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What a Sports Doctor Can Do for Your Ankle Pain
A sports doctor will look at the whole picture — not just the injured area. They aim to find out why the pain is happening, not just treat the symptoms.
Here’s how they help:
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Accurate Diagnosis
The first step is a proper assessment. The doctor will examine your ankle, ask about how the injury happened, and check your movement and strength. They may order an X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI if they suspect a more serious problem. -
Clear Recovery Plan
Based on your injury, the doctor will create a recovery plan. This may include:-
A short rest period, with a plan to keep the rest of your body training
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Activity changes to reduce stress on the ankle
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Support such as taping or bracing
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A referral to a physio or podiatrist for rehab
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Pain Management
If pain is stopping you from moving properly, sports doctors can help manage it. They might use:-
Anti-inflammatory medication
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Cortisone injections for stubborn swelling
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Shockwave therapy for chronic tendon pain
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Return-to-Sport Guidance
One of the most important parts of treatment is knowing when it’s safe to return. Sports doctors can test your ankle strength, balance, and function before you go back to full training or competition. This reduces the risk of re-injury. -
Preventing Future Injuries
Many basketballers get repeat injuries because they never fully healed. A sports doctor will help you fix the root problem, such as poor landing technique, weak foot control, or tight calves. They will also recommend the right footwear and ankle support if needed.
Why Choose Essendon Sports Medicine
If you live in Melbourne’s north-west or play for a local basketball team in the Essendon area, Essendon Sports Medicine is your go-to clinic.
Our team has extensive experience treating sports injuries, especially in high-impact sports like basketball.
We provide:
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Expert sports medicine doctors
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On-site access to physiotherapy, podiatry, and strength rehab
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Imaging referrals for X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI when needed
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Return-to-sport testing tailored for basketball
You don’t need a referral to book an appointment, although your GP referral is recommend in order to gain the best Medicare rebates. Check out the fee structure here.
Don’t Let Ankle Pain Linger
Ankle pain is more than just a nuisance.
It can affect your performance, reduce your enjoyment of the game, and lead to more serious injuries if ignored. Early assessment and the right treatment plan make all the difference.
If you’re a recreational or semi-professional basketballer in Melbourne and ankle pain is holding you back, don’t wait.
Book a consultation with a sports doctor at Essendon Sports Medicine and take control of your recovery.
Playing through pain isn’t worth it — especially when there’s expert help close to home.
Book Your Sports Doctor Ankle Appointment
Essendon Sports Medicine is located in Melbourne’s north-west and offers expert care for basketballers at every level.
To book a consultation with a sports doctor, click the button below or call the clinic directly.
Your ankles are key to your game.
Let us help you protect them.
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For consultation fees and more information, please visit our Fees and FAQs page or call us on 03 9038 9267.