Chronic Ankle Instability Treatment

What You Need To Know

Understanding chronic ankle instability and how it is diagnosed and treated.

Understanding Chronic Ankle Instability

Chronic ankle instability is a condition characterized by a recurring giving way of the outer side of the ankle. This condition often develops after repeated ankle sprains. Usually, the giving way occurs while walking or doing other activities, but it can also happen when you are just standing. Many athletes, as well as others, suffer from chronic ankle instability.

People with this condition often complain of a repeated turning of the ankle, especially on uneven surfaces or when participating in sports, persistent discomfort and swelling, pain or tenderness, and the ankle feeling wobbly. Each subsequent sprain leads to further weakening of the ligaments, resulting in greater instability.

Chronic ankle instability usually develops following an ankle sprain that has not adequately healed or was not rehabilitated completely. When you sprain your ankle, the connective tissues are stretched or torn, and your ability to balance and stabilize is often affected. Proper rehabilitation is vital to strengthen the muscles around the ankle and retrain the tissues that affect balance.

In evaluating your condition, the foot and ankle surgeon will ask about any previous ankle injuries and instability, then examine your ankle to check for tender areas, swelling, and instability. X-rays or other imaging studies may be helpful in further evaluating the ankle and guiding your treatment plan.

Treatment and Recovery Options

Treatment for chronic ankle instability is based on the results of the examination and tests, as well as on the patient’s level of activity. Nonsurgical care is typically the first step, and most patients respond well when they follow a structured rehabilitation plan.

Physical therapy involves various treatments and exercises to strengthen the ankle, improve balance and range of motion, and retrain your muscles. As you progress through rehabilitation, you may also receive training that relates specifically to your activities or sport. Some patients wear an ankle brace to gain support and keep the ankle from turning, which also helps prevent additional sprains. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may be prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation.

In some cases, the foot and ankle surgeon will recommend surgery based on the degree of instability or lack of response to nonsurgical approaches. Surgery usually involves repair or reconstruction of the damaged ligaments. The surgeon will select the procedure best suited for your case based on the severity of the instability and your activity level.

Many athletes do not take time to let their injuries heal and return to the field too soon, which causes the injury to recur and further weakens the ankle. With the right care and a properly followed rehabilitation program, patients can get back to their activities feeling stronger and more stable.