When You Need to Worry About Ankle Instability

From the time we take our first small steps, we are dependent on our ankles to provide us with the stability needed to keep walking. There’s an enormous amount of pressure placed on the ankles that we never give a second thought. That is, until we roll, strain, or break an ankle. 

Chronic Ankle Instability
An ankle injury happens whenever the ankle is rolled or twisted out of its normal position, resulting in pain and swelling. Injuries can result from anything from an unforeseen mis-step, to falling and rotating the ankle to the point of muscle strain, tendon tear, or bone break. Left medically untreated, or if the ankle doesn’t heal completely, the injury makes the ankle more susceptible to additional episodes of rolling or twisting. Symptoms lasting longer than 3 months can be an indication of chronic ankle instability.

Diagnosis 
Patients who have injured their ankle increase the risk of further damage as the ankle weakens with age or from additional injury. Patients report constant swelling, weakness, tenderness or pain, and feel unstable when standing, as if the ankle won’t support them. Folks experiencing these symptoms should see a foot and ankle specialist as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment, especially if these symptoms have persisted for 3 months or more. The specialist will take into account the patient’s symptoms, X-rays and a physical examination of the ankle to determine the extent of the damage and propose a treatment plan. 

Note: Patients who cannot put any weight on the ankle after sustaining a sudden injury should seek immediate medical attention for possible fracture.

Treatment 
There are four treatment plans available to patients suffering from chronic ankle instability. Depending on the severity of the diagnosis, one or more of these may be implemented to improve the patient’s mobility:

Medications: If persistent swelling is present, a foot and ankle specialist will typically suggest nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) available as over-the-counter medications. If OTCs are unsuccessful in alleviating symptoms, slightly stronger medications may be prescribed.

Physical Therapy: Muscles supporting the ankle need to be retrained and strengthened to regain ankle stability. Physical therapy provides exercises that will improve the range of motion and help restore balance. Other treatments, such as ice, heat, etc. may also be implemented to reduce pain and swelling.

Bracing: Ankle bracing is a viable treatment for some patients. The brace is designed to keep the ankle in the correct position so that it doesn’t roll or turn out. Braces are proven to be an effective device providing the necessary support and working towards the prevention of further sprains.

Surgery: If the severity of the ankle instability doesn’t improve via other recommended measures, or if the degree of instability is considered critical, the foot and ankle specialist will suggest surgery. The type of surgery recommended will be based on the severity of the instability and whether the patient has a sedentary or active lifestyle.

North Texas Foot and Ankle wants to keep you on your feet! If you have sustained an ankle injury, don’t self-diagnose. Timely diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent further damage from occurring and to prevent chronic ankle instability. Call us now at 214-574-9255 to begin healing.