Ankle sprains are one of the most common problems that we see in our practice. They can occur in almost any scenario, from walking the dog to playing competitive basketball. Ankle sprains are usually treated with a period of rest, ice, immobilization, and compression. Because it is a common injury, many people don’t seek treatment from a physician after an ankle sprain, because it’s probably just a sprain.
Many ankle sprains do heal without lingering problems. Most ankle sprains will produce pain and limit activity for about a month or so. Following this, most people can gradually return to their normal activities. Physical therapy is a great tool to help recover from ankle sprains, and help strengthen the tendons that support the ankle. Suffering an ankle sprain once does predispose you to having it happen again and sometimes, again and again. Recurrent ankle sprains often result in ankle instability, the feeling of the ankle being unstable and giving out, resulting in frequent ankle sprains.
Ankle instability is usually the result of torn ligaments, or ligaments which have healed in a stretched position. They are not sufficient to handle the loads placed on that part of the ankle. Stepping on a small rock or uneven terrain can result in another ankle sprain. Based on examination and sometimes with the help of MRI and/or stress x-rays, the extent of ligament damage can be assessed. Two tendons that support and control the outside of the ankle are often torn in cases of chronic ankle instability.
Treatment for ankle instability usually begins with a course of physical therapy to try to recover some strength and a sense of balance, or proprioception, in the ankle. Ankle taping or braces can be used to prevent further injuries and provide “external” support. If these conservative treatments fail to provide sufficient ankle stability, then surgery is recommended. The most common procedure that we perform for ankle instability is to tighten and repair the ligaments with or without the use of bone anchors. This requires a period of about four weeks in a cast, followed by several weeks of physical therapy. It is a highly successful procedure with excellent outcomes. If you are suffering from recurrent ankle sprains and/or feelings of ankle instability, we welcome you at the Foot and Ankle Institute of Valencia for a consultation.
We are located in the Santa Clarita Valley Medical Plaza, at 26357 McBean Parkway, Suite 250, in Valencia. For more information, please call 661-260-1180.