If your ankle frequently gives out on you, even when you're simply standing or walking, you may be dealing with more than just a lingering sprain. Chronic ankle instability is a frustrating and sometimes debilitating condition that can develop when ankle sprains are repeated or not properly rehabilitated. At Progressive Spine & Orthopaedics, board-certified foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Steven Bernstein provides comprehensive treatment for chronic ankle instability to help patients regain confidence in their mobility and prevent further injuries.
Let’s explore what causes this condition, how it can be treated, and why you should trust your care to an experienced orthopedic specialist.
What Is Chronic Ankle Instability?
A sprained ankle occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle stretch or tear, compromising joint stability and balance. When this injury doesn’t heal correctly,or if it happens repeatedly, the ankle may become permanently weakened. The result is chronic ankle instability, a condition in which the outer (lateral) side of the ankle frequently gives way.
Common symptoms include:
- Repeated ankle turning: Especially during sports or while walking on uneven surfaces.
- Chronic swelling or discomfort: Ongoing inflammation or pain even long after the initial injury.
- Tenderness or soreness: Pain around the joint that flares up with use.
- Unstable feeling: A sense that the ankle may collapse under your weight.
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, ankle sprains that are not properly rehabilitated are a leading cause of chronic ankle instability. Learn more here.
Why Proper Rehabilitation Matters
When the ligaments of the ankle are stretched or torn, healing is only one part of the recovery process. Without proper physical therapy, the muscles and tissues responsible for joint stability can remain weak, which increases the risk of repeat sprains. Physical therapy is essential to:
- Strengthen surrounding muscles
- Improve ankle range of motion
- Rebuild proprioception (your body’s sense of balance)
- Train the body to respond to sudden movement or uneven terrain
How Dr. Bernstein Treats Chronic Ankle Instability
Dr. Steven Bernstein, board-certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery, specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic ankle instability using both nonsurgical and surgical approaches.
- Bracing: An ankle brace may be used to provide added support and reduce the risk of the ankle turning during daily activities.
- Physical therapy: Targeted exercises and treatments help restore strength, flexibility, and stability.
- Surgical repair: When nonsurgical methods fail, Dr. Bernstein may recommend ligament repair or reconstruction to restore full ankle function. These procedures are tailored to the specific ligament damage and the patient’s unique anatomy.
Expertise You Can Trust for Ankle Stability
When it comes to treating chronic ankle instability, not all surgeons offer the same level of care. Dr. Bernstein’s background in reconstructive surgery and trauma gives him unique insight into the structural complexities of the ankle. His certifications, expertise, and compassionate patient care philosophy make him one of New Jersey’s most trusted foot and ankle specialists.
With Dr. Bernstein, you can be confident that your care will be:
- Delivered by a board-certified foot and ankle expert
- Based on a thorough understanding of your unique needs
- Focused on long-term recovery and return to an active lifestyle
Get Back on Your Feet with Progressive Spine & Orthopaedics
If you’re dealing with repeated ankle sprains, pain, or instability, don’t wait for the next injury to happen. Dr. Bernstein at Progressive Spine & Orthopaedics is here to help you heal, strengthen your ankle, and prevent future problems through expert care and cutting-edge treatments.
Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward lasting relief and stability.