What is it?
Chronic ankle instability means the ankle repeatedly 'gives way', usually on the outer side. It happens when the ligaments on the outside of the ankle stretch or tear during a sprain and do not heal tight enough to hold the joint steady.
What causes it?
- One or more significant ankle sprains, particularly if rehabilitation was incomplete.
- Naturally loose ligaments.
- A high-arched foot or a heel that tilts inwards, which makes sprains more likely.
Common symptoms
- The ankle giving way, especially on uneven ground or during sport.
- Repeated sprains.
- Pain, tenderness or swelling on the outer side of the ankle.
- A wobbly or untrustworthy feeling in the ankle.
How is it diagnosed?
Your surgeon will test how loose the ligaments are and look for related problems with tendons or cartilage. X-rays are usually taken, and an MRI scan can show the ligaments, tendons and joint surface.
Things you can do now
- Do balance exercises daily, such as standing on one leg while brushing your teeth
- Strengthen the muscles on the outside of the ankle
- Wear a brace or tape the ankle for sport
- Choose supportive footwear on uneven ground
Treatment
Treatment is tailored to your individual needs, symptoms and goals. Depending on your situation, it may include physiotherapy to improve balance, strength and control, an ankle brace or taping for sport, supportive footwear and surgery to repair or reconstruct the ligaments, sometimes combined with keyhole surgery inside the joint.
Mr Jeyaseelan will talk you through the options that are right for you at your consultation.
When to see a specialist
- The ankle keeps giving way despite three months of physiotherapy
- You have pain or swelling between sprains
- Instability is stopping you from doing sport or daily activities with confidence
What to expect
Most people improve with a structured physiotherapy programme. For those who don't, ligament reconstruction has a high success rate and most people return to sport.
Common questions
Where can I see a specialist about ankle instability in London?
Mr Lucky Jeyaseelan, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon who specialises only in the foot and ankle, sees private and insured patients with ankle instability at Align Orthopaedics on Harley Street, The London Clinic on Devonshire Place, HCA London Bridge Hospital, HCA UK at The Shard, HCA UK City of London on Old Broad Street and The Holly Hospital in Buckhurst Hill, Essex. See all clinic locations or request an appointment.
Do I need a GP referral?
Self-funding patients can book directly, though a GP letter is helpful. Most insurers need a GP referral before they authorise your consultation, so check with yours first.
This information is general and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Your diagnosis and treatment plan will be tailored to you.