About Ankle Instability
Most often, chronic ankle instability is due to repeated sprains of the lateral ligament complex of the ankle. These ligaments anchor to the lateral malleolus, the bony prominence on the outside of your ankle. Rolling your ankle can tear these ligaments. Typically, time will heal the torn ligament and proper strengthening and balance exercises can decrease recurrence. However, sometimes the ligaments will heal in a dysfunctional way and this can cause an unstable ankle. Acute ankle instability can be caused by a traumatic fracture and this will often need to be treated surgically.
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Symptoms of Ankle Instability
Ankle instability is the symptom in and of itself. Instability may be worsened by walking barefoot, in high heels, on unstable or uneven surfaces (gravel, sand, etc).
Treatment for Ankle Instability
For chronic ankle instability, the ligaments often implicated (the ATFL and CFL most commonly) can be injected under ultrasound with Regenexx platelet rich plasma (PRP), platelet lysate, or bone marrow concentrate with stem cells to reduce pain and improve healing.
If you suffer from symptoms of ankle instability, schedule a consultation with our interventional pain specialists at Ospina Medical in Midtown Manhattan today. We will create an individualized treatment plan to help treat your pain, improve your function and get you back to living your life.
Ankle Instability FAQ
When is surgery considered for ankle instability?
Surgery may be recommended if conservative treatments fail and the instability significantly affects daily activities.
Can ankle instability lead to other complications?
Yes, untreated instability can increase the risk of further sprains, arthritis, and chronic pain. ?
Can ankle instability affect both ankles?
Yes, though it's more common in one ankle, both can be affected, especially if similar stressors are present.
