Ankle injuries are among the most common orthopedic concerns, particularly for athletes and active individuals. One wrong step on uneven ground or a quick pivot in sports can result in a painful ankle sprain. But when these sprains occur frequently, they could be a sign of a more serious issue: chronic ankle instability.
“Chronic ankle instability can develop when a sprained ankle hasn’t healed properly,” says J.R. Barley, D.O., a Riverside Sports Medicine physician. “When you sprain an ankle, you can stretch and possibly tear ligaments. The more sprains you experience, the more unstable the ankle will be.”
What Is Chronic Ankle Instability?
Ankle instability describes a condition where the outer part of the ankle frequently feels unstable or gives out, even during everyday movements like walking, running or standing. It commonly develops after repeated ankle sprains that weaken the lateral ligaments—the bands of tissue that connect bones and help stabilize the ankle joint.
Key signs of ankle instability include:
- Persistent discomfort and swelling
- A feeling of wobbliness or unsteadiness
- Pain, especially on the outside of the ankle
- Frequent twisting or turning of the ankle
These symptoms tend to reduce the ability to perform normal activities and increase the risk for further injuries.
What Causes Chronic Ankle Instability?
The most frequent cause is damage to the lateral ankle ligaments, particularly the anterior talofibular ligament. However, other contributing factors may include:
- Ankle arthritis: Degeneration of cartilage in the joint
- Previous fractures in the ankle that didn’t heal properly
- Synovitis (inflammation of the joint lining)
- Nerve injuries, such as damage to the peroneal nerve
- Torn or inflamed tendons, especially the peroneal tendons
- Scar tissue buildup following repeated sprains
These issues compromise the structure and stability of the ankle, making it more susceptible to future sprains.
When to See a Sports Medicine Specialist
“People with ankle instability can experience chronic pain and swelling,” Dr. Barley explains. “Their ankle can also feel wobbly, making them more susceptible to injuries.”
If your ankle frequently gives out or you’ve experienced multiple sprains, it’s time to consult a sports medicine specialist.
Diagnosis typically includes:
- Review of injury history
- Physical examination of ankle strength and mobility
- Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI, to assess ligament and tendon health
Treatment Options for Chronic Ankle Instability
Treatment begins with non-surgical interventions aimed at restoring function and preventing future injuries. These may include:
- Physical therapy: To strengthen ankle muscles, improve balance and enhance flexibility
- Bracing: To support the ankle during physical activity
- Anti-inflammatory medications: To reduce swelling and discomfort
- Activity modification: To avoid movements that trigger instability
If non-surgical approaches do not improve the condition, surgery may be the best option for care. Surgical procedures can include:
- Ligament repair or reconstruction
- Tendon repair
- Debridement (cleaning out damaged tissue)
- Removal of loose bone or cartilage fragments
For athletes, rehab often includes training in proper movement mechanics to prevent reinjury.
Get Help from Riverside’s Foot and Ankle Specialists
Whether you’re struggling with recurring sprains or suspect you have chronic ankle instability, the specialists at Riverside are here to help. Our sports medicine team provides personalized treatment options to restore stability and prevent further damage.
Call our Sports Medicine Hotline at 757-534-6767 for direct access to care, clinical advice, or to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced orthopedic experts.
