Arthrex Ankle Sprain Treatment Options

Why Do I Keep Rolling My Ankle?

Repeated ankle sprains are both a symptom and a cause of a weak and unstable ankle. Each time you twist or roll your ankle, the ligaments on the outside of your ankle can stretch or tear, creating a perpetual cycle of recurring injuries and ankle pain.Chronic ankle instability occurs when the damaged ligaments fail to heal properly. The loose ligaments cannot protect your ankle from rolling outwardly.

What causes ankle sprains?

An ankle sprain is caused when the ligaments in your ankle–the tough bands of tissue holding your ankle bones together–move past their normal range of motion. This can occur if you fall, step wrong, land awkwardly, or twist or roll your ankle, and can result in those ligaments stretching or even tearing. Many activities, from your day-to-day errands to high levels of physical activity, can cause an ankle sprain.

What is lateral ankle instability and chronic ankle sprain?

The ligaments in your ankle contribute to your stability. If they overstretch or tear, they are unable to keep your ankle as stable, which can result in your ankle giving way and feeling wobbly. Left untreated, you may experience repeated ankle sprains and continued instability.

Can't my ankle heal on its own?

Minor ankle sprains may be able to recover. Conservative treatments such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) may provide temporary relief of ankle pain after a sprain or strain, but they will not repair damaged ligaments. Recurring ankle sprains can lead to chronic ankle instability, a long-term condition that may not heal on its own.

Are there any potential consequences to putting off or not getting surgery for my chronic ankle sprains?

Yes. In addition to repeated ankle sprains and continued instability, over time, and without treatment, repeated injury to the ankle ligaments can lead to degenerative changes and possibly osteoarthritis (OA).1,2 closeWhat Is a High Ankle Sprain?The ankle syndesmosis is the joint between the tibia and the fibula near the ankle.