Chronic Ankle Instability
What Is Chronic Ankle Instability?
Recurrent Ankle Giving Way After Repeated Sprains. Chronic ankle instability is a condition where the outer (lateral) side of the ankle frequently “gives out” during activity, especially on uneven surfaces or during sports. It typically develops after multiple ankle sprains that were not fully healed or rehabilitated, leading to weakened ligaments and poor ankle control.
Over time, the ligaments lose their ability to support the ankle properly, resulting in a cycle of repeated injuries and instability.
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Causes and Risk Factors
- History of repeated lateral ankle sprains
- Inadequate rehabilitation after a prior ankle injury
- Ligament laxity (loose ligaments)
- Poor proprioception (balance and joint awareness)
- High-impact or pivot-heavy sports (e.g., basketball, soccer, trail running)
Symptoms
- Frequent episodes of the ankle “giving out,” especially during movement
- Persistent discomfort or tenderness around the ankle
- Swelling, even in the absence of a recent injury
- Feeling of looseness or instability in the joint
- Difficulty walking on uneven surfaces or wearing certain shoes
- Reduced performance in sports or physical activity
Diagnosis
Evaluation includes a thorough physical exam and detailed history of prior ankle injuries. The orthopedic specialist may perform manual stress tests to assess ligament integrity.
Imaging Tests:
- X-rays: To rule out fractures or bone alignment issues
- MRI: To visualize ligament damage, scar tissue, and cartilage injuries
- Stress X-rays: To assess the looseness of ankle ligaments under force
Treatment
Non-Surgical Treatment
- Physical Therapy: Focuses on strengthening the surrounding muscles and restoring balance and proprioception
- Bracing or Taping: Helps support the ankle during activity
- Activity Modification: Avoiding high-risk movements or surfaces
- Anti-inflammatory medications: To manage pain and swelling during flare-ups
Surgical Treatment
- Surgery is considered if non-surgical options fail and instability continues to interfere with daily life or athletic performance. The most common procedures include:
- Broström Procedure: A ligament repair or reconstruction technique using the patient’s own tissue
- Ligament Reconstruction with Tendon Graft: Used in more severe cases or when native ligaments are too damaged
Recovery Timeline
Non-surgical rehab: May take 6–8 weeks of consistent physical therapy
Surgical recovery: 4–6 weeks in a cast or boot followed by physical therapy
Return to full activity or sports: Typically between 3–6 months depending on progress
Expert Treatment at Kerlan Jobe Institute
At Kerlan Jobe Institute, our orthopedic foot and ankle specialists provide personalized care for chronic ankle instability. We emphasize precise diagnosis, evidence-based rehabilitation, and, when necessary, advanced surgical repair to help patients restore ankle strength, stability, and confidence in motion.
Getting You Back in Motion
Surgery is just the beginning. How do you heal, move, and feel when all is said and done?
From NHL and NBA players to weekend warriors, our goal is the same: getting you back to doing what you love.
Patient Testimonials
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“Dr. Kvitne operated on my shoulder 3 years ago and I had a perfect recovery and no problems since and I do not see a scar. He is kind with a great bedside manor and a highly skilled surgeon.”
Dr. Kharrazi truly got me back on my feet—literally.
One year ago, I tore several ligaments in my knee, and now I’m able to do the things I enjoy again.
His expertise, knowledge, and confidence are what made me choose him as my surgeon, and I will always be grateful to him and his entire team. Rudy, his assistant; Norma, who was always so prompt with all of my emails; and Blanca, who helped with forms—each of them made a difference. I can’t thank them enough for being there with me every step of the way.
I can’t say enough good things about Dr. Kvitne
“My experience with Dr Kvitne was amazing he is a outstanding Doctor what a talented man he is my knee was in such bad shape he did not have much to work with but he got in there and fixed me up there was so much that had to be repaired Dr Kvitne with his knowledge and experience repaired my knee so nicely done I have had knee surgery before but never like this I can’t say enough good things about Dr Kvitne awesome human being as well as a awesome excellent Doctor!!”
Dr. Kharrazi gave me my mobility back
After 2 knee surgeries with other Orthopedics I must say that Dr. Kharrazi is a miracle worker. I have my mobility back and my pain level is so greatly improved. Thanks Dr. K!
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Kerlan-Jobe provides comprehensive orthopaedic care for patients seeking expert treatment for sports injuries, joint pain, and mobility limitations. We offers specialized experience and a patient-first approach designed to support lasting results.
Contact the office to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.