Act early, hurt less. It’s a common refrain here at Advanced Foot Care of NJ, and for good reason: after all, leaving a foot or ankle issue unattended means you’ll likely suffer something worse in short order. That’s particularly true when it comes to chronic ankle instability.

Chronic ankle instability is characterized by repeated episodes of giving way or “rolling” of the ankle joint. It often stems from an initial ankle sprain that wasn’t properly treated or healed, and for this blog post, we’re going to explain both how it happens and what you can do about it.

Progression

Acute Ankle Sprain: This occurs when the ligaments surrounding the ankle joint are stretched or torn, typically due to a sudden twisting or inversion of the foot.
Subacute Phase: During this period, the ankle may still be swollen, painful, and weak. If not treated properly, the joint can become less stable.
Chronic Ankle Instability: This develops when the ankle joint remains unstable and prone to recurrent sprains, even after the initial injury has healed.

Prevention

Proper Treatment for Acute Sprains: Follow a recommended rehabilitation program to strengthen the ankle muscles and improve stability. For serious pain, seek medical attention.
Bracing and Taping: Wearing a brace or ankle tape can provide additional support and reduce the risk of re-injury.
Exercise and Conditioning: Strengthening the ankle muscles, especially the calf muscles, can help improve stability. Incorporate exercises like calf raises, balance drills, and plyometrics into your routine.

Treatment

Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design a personalized rehabilitation program to strengthen the ankle muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance proprioception.
Bracing and Taping: Continued use of braces or ankle tape can provide added support and reduce the risk of recurrent sprains.
Surgery: In severe cases of chronic ankle instability, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged ligaments or address other underlying issues.

With the info above, you can both reduce the risk of recurrent sprains and treat ones that are already aching. To Healthy Feet! At Advanced Foot Care of NJ, LLC, our doctor and staff look forward to resolving all of your family’s podiatric healthcare needs. We proudly serve the communities of Little Falls, Cedar Grove, Verona, Stoney Road, Sandy Hill, Albion Place, and Great Notch. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!