What is ankle instability?
Ankle instability is a condition where the ankle repeatedly gives way, especially during physical activities or when walking on uneven surfaces. It often develops after repeated ankle sprains that weaken the ligaments, leading to chronic pain, swelling, and a sense of unsteadiness. If left untreated, ankle instability can increase the risk of future injuries and long-term joint damage.
What causes ankle instability?
Chronic ankle instability often develops from repeated ankle sprains that weaken the ligaments, making them more susceptible to future injuries. In some cases, the ligaments may be naturally loose, a condition known as ligament laxity, which further compromises stability.
When an ankle injury doesn’t heal properly, lingering weakness can make the joint more prone to giving out. Muscle imbalances affecting strength and coordination can also contribute to instability, while structural issues like high arches or flat feet alter foot mechanics, placing additional strain on the ligaments and increasing the risk of chronic instability.
How do you fix chronic ankle instability?
Treatment for chronic ankle instability depends on the severity of the condition. Many cases improve with conservative treatments, but severe instability may require surgery to restore ligament function and prevent long-term damage.
Non-surgical treatments for ankle instability
Many patients can regain stability through non-invasive methods, including:
- Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve balance
- Bracing or taping to provide support during activities
- Custom orthotics to correct foot alignment and reduce strain
- Anti-inflammatory medications to manage pain and swelling
- Activity modifications to prevent further injuries while healing
Surgical treatments for ankle instability
If non-surgical treatments fail to resolve ankle instability, surgery may be necessary to repair or reconstruct damaged ligaments and restore the ankle’s stability. The specific surgical approach depends on the severity of the instability and the underlying cause of the condition.
These procedures are typically followed by a rehabilitation program to restore strength, mobility, and function to the ankle, allowing patients to return to normal activities with reduced risk of future instability. Common procedures include:
Lateral ankle ligament reconstruction
This procedure is often used to repair or reconstruct the lateral ankle ligaments, particularly the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) and calcaneofibular ligament (CFL), which are commonly damaged in chronic ankle instability. The surgery tightens and strengthens these ligaments, improving stability and preventing further sprains.
Tendon grafting
In cases where the ligaments are severely damaged or stretched beyond repair, tendon grafting may be used. A tendon from another part of the body or a donor tendon is used to replace the damaged ligaments, providing a more durable solution for long-term stability.
Arthroscopy
A minimally invasive procedure, arthroscopy involves using small incisions and a camera to visualize and treat ankle joint damage. This can be used to remove damaged tissue, scar tissue, or bone fragments contributing to instability, promoting faster recovery and less post-surgical pain.
When is it time to see a podiatrist?
If you experience frequent ankle sprains, a feeling of your ankle “giving out,” or ongoing pain, swelling, or difficulty walking that doesn’t improve with rest, it’s important to seek professional care. The doctors at Volunteer Podiatry can assess unresolved or worsening ankle injuries and recommend treatments to prevent long-term damage and restore stability.