Does your ankle “give way” repeatedly? If this happens to you – especially when you are walking or just standing – you may have chronic ankle instability, a condition that can occur after multiple ankle sprains. “Many athletes, especially those who play football, basketball, volleyball, tennis and soccer, experience ankle instability because of repeated sprains. These sports involve jumping and rapid direction changes that put them at risk for sprains,” says Jason G. Bowman, MD, a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon specializing in foot and ankle surgery at Summit Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Surgery. “Chronic ankle instability is more common in female athletes,” he adds.
Instability may also cause pain, tenderness, ongoing discomfort and swelling in the ankle. An unsteady ankle is more likely to turn or give way when playing sports, walking or jogging on uneven surfaces or engaging in everyday activities. Chronic ankle instability can also affect your balance.
“Ankle sprains may seem like a simple injury, but they actually stretch and may even tear ligaments. Repeated sprains weaken the ligaments even more, which leads to instability. The peroneal tendons can also be injured with repeat ankle sprains,” says Dr. Bowman.
When patients come to Dr. Bowman complaining of an unsteady, painful ankle, he asks about prior injuries. “After discussing their medical history and lifestyle – do they play sports, for example – I examine their foot and ankle for tenderness, instability and swelling. I may also order an X-ray or MRI to rule out other issues.”
With timely, accurate diagnosis, the issue may heal well with rest, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen, bracing support and physical therapy, or a home exercise program. “Physical therapy strengthens the muscles around the ankle and helps to improve balance and proprioception (knowing where ankle is in space). Therapists and sports medicine specialists also teach athletes sports-specific techniques to reduce the risk of another injury,” Dr. Bowman explains, adding, “Non-athletes also benefit from understanding and using proper body mechanics.”
Chris Moncus
Jason G. Bowman, MD
When the condition does not respond to conservative treatments, if the problem persists or is severe, a patient may want to consider surgery. “An orthopaedic surgeon can repair or reconstruct damaged ligaments and will recommend the procedure best suited to the patient’s lifestyle and degree of instability,” says Dr. Bowman. After surgery, most patients wear a boot or cast before progressing to a brace and physical therapy.
“Chronic ankle instability can be debilitating and dangerous and can affect your balance and mobility. However, there are solutions, and the earlier you seek help, the faster and more completely you will heal,” Dr. Bowman says.
To make an appointment with Dr. Bowman, call 912.466.7340 (Brunswick) or 912.466.5570 (St. Simons Island).
