How to Treat Ankle Instability

If you are suffering from ankle instability, call our clinic to schedule an appointment and discuss treatment options. We can examine you and determine the cause of the instability before making treatment recommendations.

THE SYMPTOMS

The main symptom of ankle instability is feeling as though the ankle will give way when walking or placing any pressure on it. Some patients feel this all the time while others experience heightened symptoms when wearing shoes that are more difficult to walk in like heels or clogs. This lack of security makes it difficult to walk or conduct normal activities necessary for work, school and social activities. These issues can be disabling and require immediate medical intervention before the problem can become worse or long-lasting.

Instability can occur with or without pain and discomfort, though as the problem progresses most people report experiencing serious and sharp pain. The ankle may even become sore to the touch when not being walked on. A precursor to these symptoms may be an ankle rolling or wobbling when walking, though pressure can still be applied. If someone notices a difference in walk or gait, it is wise to be examined to determine the cause of the issue and if treatment is warranted.

CAUSES OF ANKLE INSTABILITY

There are numerous reasons for patients to suffer from this condition and it tends to impact physically active or older adults the most. Some common causes of this problem include:

• Ankle sprain that never healed like it should
• Ligaments becoming stretched out
• Sports that regularly stretch the ankle or cause a sprain

TREATING THE CONDITION

If the condition is new, patients can first attempt at-home treatments which include:

• Using ice on the ankle for fifteen minutes every hour but wrap it in a cloth to avoid skin irritation.
• Avoid walking or running as much as possible.
• Elevate the ankle up while laying down or reclining.
• Take ibuprofen, an anti-inflammatory, to reduce swelling and pain.

If this does not solve the problem, additional intervention is likely to be necessary. In our office, we often recommend physical therapy. This can involve exercises designed to both stretches and strengthens the ankle. Physical therapy is often necessary to promote healing of the ankle and to ensure that any sprains can be recovered from without causing additional damage.

This process takes time but is necessary for long-term recovery and well-being. However, when an ankle sustains damage, exercises and stretching should be directed by a medical professional to prevent further injury. In addition, we may recommend wearing a brace during the recovery process.

After exhausting all non-invasive treatment options, if a patient is still experiencing pain and instability, surgery may be necessary as a final method of treatment. This is something that we do not take lightly and so it is common for us to try physical therapy and braces first. However, when necessary, surgery is a good option for long-term health improvements.

CALL FOR HELP WITH ANKLE INSTABILITY

There is no need to live with this condition when help is so readily available. Call our clinic and schedule an appointment today so that we can assist you in regaining your stability and mobility.