Recognizing and Treating Ankle Instability
Ankle instability is a condition in which the ankle joint becomes unstable, resulting in an inability to support the body’s weight during activities such as walking, running, and even standing. If you experience symptoms of ankle instability, our board-certified podiatrists at Foot & Ankle Centers of Frisco, Little Elm, & McKinney in Frisco, Little Elm, and McKinney, Texas, can determine the most effective treatment for you. Our expert podiatry team offers advanced diagnostics and same-day appointments for urgent foot and ankle problems.
Understanding the Causes of Ankle Instability
The ankle can become unstable when experiencing ankle instability, making it difficult to bear weight while performing activities like walking, running, or even standing. This condition can be caused by an ankle injury, an inherited trait, or overuse.
Ankle instability is caused by a previous ankle sprain that weakens the muscles and ligaments that support the joint. Other causes include genetic predisposition, poor posture, and muscle imbalances.
If someone experiences pain or swelling after activity or difficulty walking, they may have an unstable ankle.
Other signs of an unstable ankle include a feeling of giving way, or awkwardness while walking or running. A physical therapist or doctor can help determine if instability is the cause.
Stabilize Your Ankle - Recognize the Symptoms
- Pain, swelling, and tenderness around the ankle joint
- Instability at the ankle joint
- Difficulty walking or standing
- A feeling of the ankle “catching” or “locking” when walking
- Repeated ankle sprains or frequent ankle injuries
- Chronic ankle pain or soreness
- Loss of range of motion in the ankle joint
If ankle instability is left untreated, it can lead to chronic pain and arthritis. This can cause an increase in the risk of developing ankle arthritis, recurrent sprains, and ankle fractures. Additionally, untreated ankle instability can reduce balance and coordination, which can result in an increased risk of falls and injuries. At Foot & Ankle Centers of Frisco, Little Elm, & McKinney, we offer same-day appointments for urgent problems like fractures and sprained ankles.
An Effective Path to Improved Ankle Stability
Ankle instability can be diagnosed through a physical exam or MRI conducted by a doctor or other medical professional.
During the exam, the doctor will look for signs of swelling, tenderness, and other changes in the ankle area. The doctor may also check for a range of motion, strength, and flexibility in the ankle. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, may also be used to further diagnose ankle instability.
If your condition is mild, your doctor may recommend at-home treatments like rest and ice. In most cases, your doctor can effectively treat your injury with conservative treatments, including:
- Physical Therapy
- Bracing
- Medications
If your condition is severe then surgery may be necessary to repair or tighten ligaments or fuse your bones together. The goal of treatments for ankle instability is to improve the symptoms of instability, reduce the risk of recurrent sprains, and improve the overall ankle function. At Foot & Ankle Centers of Frisco, Little Elm, & McKinney, our team of podiatrists work with you to find the right treatment for your injury.
InternalBrace™ for Ankle Instability
InternalBrace™ surgery is an effective treatment option for many people suffering from ankle instability. It is a minimally-invasive procedure that involves inserting a small metal brace inside the ankle joint, which is designed to provide additional stability and support. The brace is custom-made to fit your ankle and is usually made of a lightweight material such as titanium. This procedure can be performed by one of our expert podiatrists at Foot & Ankle Centers of Frisco, Little Elm, & McKinney, and our patients can typically walk on the ankle within several days of the procedure. InternalBrace™ is a safe and effective option for those who suffer from ankle instability and need additional support and stability for their ankle.