Chronic Ankle Instability

Chronic ankle instability occurs when the ankle repeatedly gives way due to weakened ligaments, often resulting from poorly healed sprains. Surgical options, including ligament reconstruction, may be necessary for severe cases.

What is Chronic Ankle Instability? 

Chronic ankle instability is a condition characterized by a recurring giving way of the outer (lateral) side of the ankle. This condition often develops after repeated ankle sprains. Usually, the giving way occurs while walking or doing other activities, but it can also happen when you’re just standing. Many athletes, as well as others, suffer from chronic ankle instability.

Chronic ankle instability usually develops following an ankle sprain that has not adequately healed or was not rehabilitated completely.

When you sprain your ankle, the connective tissues (ligaments) are stretched or torn. The ability to balance is often affected. Proper rehabilitation is needed to strengthen the muscles around the ankle and retrain the tissues within the ankle that affect balance. Failure to do so may result in repeated ankle sprains.

Repeated ankle sprains often cause—and perpetuate—chronic ankle instability. Each subsequent sprain leads to further weakening (or stretching) of the ligaments, resulting in greater instability and the likelihood of developing additional problems in the ankle.