Chronic Lateral Ankle Pain or Instability Treatment in Orange County
Advice on care and treatment from a Foot and Ankle Sports Medicine Specialist Surgeon in Orange County.
The most common reason that I find for chronic lateral ankle pain is instability and weakness. Patients that have a history of chronic ankle sprains or even having that one sprain that is very memorable.
Sometimes during an ankle sprain damage was caused to the talus resulting in an osteochondral defect.
Diagnosis of Chronic Lateral Ankle Pain
Besides a good history and physical, X-rays are helpful to determine bone pathology
An MRI is the best modality to evaluate the soft tissue in the body. It can be very helpful in making a final diagnosis and figuring out a treatment course of chronic lateral ankle pain.
Decrease inflammation with a TENS
Strengthening bands
Ankle brace
Treatment of Chronic Lateral Ankle Pain
Balance Board
Strengthening the Peroneal muscles at home will help stabilize the ankle joint. These home exercises can be performed using a Resistive Exercise Band or a Rock Ankle Exercise Board, seen below. The recovery process is sped up with the help of a physical therapist.
Orthotics or Ankle Braces can be used to stabilize the rearfoot and prevent extensive inversion or re-injury of the lateral ankle.
Find out what ankle brace is right for you.
Steroid injections can also relieve symptoms of lateral ankle pain.
Surgical Treatement of Lateral Ankle Instability
If conservative treatment fails, then surgery is a good option. The procedure usually involves ankle arthroscopy along with tightening of the lateral ankle ligaments.
Recovery time after Lateral Ankle Instability Surgery
Patients will remain non weight bearing for about two weeks in a cast. After the two week mark, protected weight bearing and light range of motion exercises can begin. At about 3 weeks strengthening is resumed. Patient can anticipate to return to more agressive activities in about 8-12 weeks.
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Last Updated 11-14-2016