Ankle instability is a recognised medical condition, identified by an internal weakness within or around the ankles. Patients who have this disorder may also frequently suffer from ankle sprains and find they are unable to walk straight or can struggle to walk properly. They are often classified as being lazy or just clumsy. At Podiatry Station, we can help give your ankle support and stability.
Book an appointmentAs the ankle is a key structure of the foot, many factors can influence its strength and functionality. Bony alignment, muscle strength and tone, and ligament elasticity all have an important role to play in stabilising the ankle. If there is a problem in any of these structures, then ankle function tends to be compromised. During your appointment at Podiatry Station, we diagnose the issue and take time to understand the causes before helping with specialist treatment.
Get in touchThe treatment for ankle instability involves a comprehensive approach to alleviate symptoms, enhance stability, and reduce the risk of future ankle injuries. Conservative measures play a significant role and often include physical therapy to strengthen the muscles surrounding the ankle and improve proprioception, or the sense of joint position. Balance and stability exercises are essential components of rehabilitation.
We may recommend supportive measures, such as ankle braces or taping, to provide additional stability to your ankle while you walk or carry out daily or sporting activities. We give you a personalised treatment plan, based on the severity of your instability and your specific clinical needs. We see you for regular follow up appointments to check on your progress and ensure the treatment is proving successful.
Footwear modifications, such as wearing shoes with good arch support, can contribute to better ankle alignment. In some cases, custom orthotic inserts may be prescribed. If conservative treatments prove insufficient, especially in cases of severe instability, surgical options like ligament reconstruction may be considered to restore stability to the ankle joint.
Ankle instability is a condition where the ankle joint is prone to giving way or feeling unstable. It often results from a previous ankle sprain that did not fully heal or was not adequately rehabilitated. The ligaments that support the ankle may become stretched or weakened, leading to instability.
Symptoms of ankle instability include recurrent ankle sprains, a feeling of the ankle “giving way”, pain or tenderness, swelling, and difficulty maintaining balance. Instability is often more noticeable during activities that involve sudden changes in direction or uneven surfaces.
Diagnosis involves a physical examination, where the ankle’s stability and range of motion is assessed, and any signs of swelling or tenderness are identified. X-rays or MRI scans may be used to rule out other potential causes and to evaluate the severity of ligament damage.
Treatment for ankle instability typically involves a combination of conservative measures and, in some cases, surgical intervention. Conservative treatments include physical therapy to strengthen the ankle muscles and improve stability, wearing ankle braces or supportive footwear, and modifying activities to avoid further injury. Surgical options may be considered in cases where conservative measures are ineffective, and they may involve ligament reconstruction or stabilisation procedures.
