If you have a history of ankle sprains, your risk for developing chronic ankle instability increases. The skilled podiatrists at Hosey and Murphy Foot & Ankle Centers, with multiple locations in Mount Clemens, Clinton Township, and Sterling Heights, Michigan, offer on-site diagnostic evaluations to assess the stability of your ankle structure. The team creates custom care plans to promote total healing of your ankle and reduce your risk for permanent disability. Schedule a consultation for chronic ankle instability symptoms at the Hosey and Murphy Foot & Ankle Centers nearest you by phone or using the online booking system.
request an appointmentWhat is chronic ankle instability?
Chronic ankle instability is a condition where you have recurrent episodes of your ankle giving out when walking or engaging in other types of physical activity. For some, losing ankle stability can even occur when you’re standing still.
Recurrent ankle instability often occurs after repeated trauma to your ankle, such as sprains and strains from falls or sports participation. In many cases, instability results if the ankle doesn’t heal properly from an injury or if you don’t undergo necessary rehabilitation.
What are the symptoms of chronic ankle instability?
Recurrent sprains cause the ligaments in your ankle to stretch or tear, and they can no longer support your ankle joint. When this occurs, you may lose balance in your ankle, increasing your risk for additional sprains.
Common symptoms associated with chronic ankle instability include:
- Tenderness
- Persistent pain
- Repeated turning of the ankle
As the condition progresses, you may notice your ankle often feels wobbly and unable to support your weight.
What’s the process for diagnosing chronic ankle instability?
Your provider at Hosey and Murphy Foot & Ankle Centers can determine if you have chronic instability after a review of your medical history and previous ankle injuries. They also examine your ankle, checking for areas of tenderness and pain.
To evaluate the condition of your ligaments, your foot and ankle specialist may request X-rays or other imaging tests.
What does treatment for chronic ankle instability depend on?
Your treatment plan for chronic ankle instability depends on the severity of your condition. The team at Hosey and Murphy Foot & Ankle Centers may first recommend nonsurgical treatments, such as bracing, to help your ankle heal. You may ease pain and inflammation with over-the-counter or prescription medications.
In many cases, physical therapy is beneficial for rebuilding the strength of the muscles that support the ankle joint. You can learn techniques for improving your balance and your range of motion in your ankle to reduce risk factors for additional sprains.
When you have severe tears in the ligaments or the tissue tears away from the bone, your Hosey and Murphy Foot & Ankle Centers provider may recommend surgery to repair or reconstruct the ligament.
To find out more about treatment options available for chronic ankle stability, call the Hosey and Murphy Foot & Ankle Centers office nearest you or request an appointment online now.