Ankle Instability

The steadiness of your body is based on the foundation: the strength and stability of your legs, ankles, and feet. If the bones in the ankles or feet are out of place, then it can affect alignment in the entire body. Chronic ankle pain and instability can be debilitating, which is why it is important to talk to a podiatrist about your concerns.

What Causes Chronic Ankle Instability?

Genetics, age, and past injuries can play a role in the stability of your ankles. When someone experiences multiple ankle sprains, it can sometimes lead to secondary conditions, such as tendon irritation, arthritis, weakness, and more.

Chronic inflammation in the ankle can occur due to multiple minor injuries, or one large ankle injury. Sometimes other issues contribute to weakness and instability in the ankle, such as:

• Bone fractures in or around the ankle joint
• Nerve injury or damage
• Scar tissue that builds up over time
• Tendons that are inflamed or torn
• Arthritis

When the ankle is unstable, symptoms usually include swelling, weakness, chronic pain that flares at times, increased pain with pressure. Often, ankle problems can lead to secondary complications, eventually limiting mobility and making it difficult to walk.

Treatments for Ankle Instability

Initial treatment options are noninvasive and include:

• NSAIDs to manage pain and swelling
• Physical therapy to increase strength and flexibility
• Restoring range of motion and joint positioning through exercises and stretches
• Ankle braces to support the joint
• Steroid injections
• Immobilization with a cast or boot to help broken bones to heal

Severe ankle problems might require surgery if positive results aren’t achieved with the noninvasive treatment options.

Talk to a Podiatrist about Strengthening Your Ankle

If you are concerned about chronic ankle pain and weakness, or you experience recurring sprains, then it might be time to consult with an experienced podiatrist about possible treatments. Contact Rock Canyon Foot and Ankle: one of the leading podiatry offices in Denver. We are here to help!