Facts about Chronic Ankle Instability

If you’re one of those people whose ankle is constantly giving way when you step off a curb, hit an uneven spot in the pavement or even while standing still, you may believe it’s just part of who you are. At Texas Foot Specialists, however, we want patients to know that weak ankles can be treated. Below are some facts about this common condition.

FACT: Weak ankles are most commonly caused by repeated ankle sprains. During an ankle-twisting injury, the ligaments in the ankle get overstretched. If the sprain is not fully healed, the ligaments are weak and prone to overstretch again. Eventually, a cycle of repeated sprains has the effect of a rubber band that gets stretched out and no longer goes back to its original shape. For this reason, it’s important to have ankle sprains promptly evaluated and treated at our Pasadena (281) 991-0600, Sugar Land (281) 242-4448 or Houston (713) 664-6677 office.

FACT: Other possible reasons for chronic ankle instability can be a congenital condition or an injury to the ankle joint.

FACT: Our podiatrists Dr. Gregory Mangum and Dr. Bruce Miller will do a complete examination of your ankle as well as look at any records or imaging studies from previous ankle injuries. They may also order additional tests to diagnose the source of your ankle’s weakness.

FACT: Chronic ankle instability can be treated in a number of conservative ways, including medication to reduce inflammation and swelling, bracing the ankle for increased stability and physical therapy to strengthen the ankle and improve balance. In cases of extreme damage, surgery may be necessary to repair or reconstruct the damaged ligaments.

FACT: You can further reduce your risk of future ankle sprains by wearing shoes with wide, low heels.

If you believe you may have chronic ankle instability, don’t wait. Contact us today for an appointment.