Repeated Ankle Injuries Lead to Chronic Problems

9650036_S_sprained_ankle_male_ice_pack_foot_bruise.jpg

Recently at the U.S. Open, tennis pro Serena Williams rolled her ankle during a match against Petra Martic. Williams went on to win the match and said she didn’t think the injury was serious, saying “I usually know if it’s horrible early on.”

Obviously, she’s had multiple ankle sprains, but we at Texas Foot Specialists know that’s part of a cycle that can lead to chronic ankle instability and pain. When you sprain your ankle, you overstretch the ligaments. If they are not fully rehabilitated through proper treatment, you’re left with weakened tissues that are more likely to be overstretched again. With each successive sprain, your ankle ligaments get weaker, like a rubber band that’s lost its stretch.

Heal Like a Pro

If you’ve had one or more ankle injuries and are experiencing ongoing pain, tenderness and/or feel like your ankle is wobbly and gives out frequently, you may have chronic ankle instability. It’s important to get these symptoms checked out by one of our podiatrists Dr. Bruce Miller or Dr. Gregory Mangum before you sprain your ankle again. The foot doctor will examine your ankle, looking for swelling and tenderness. X-rays, which can be done right in our Sugar Land (281-242-4448), Pasadena (281-991-0600) or Houston (713-664-6677) office, and other imaging studies may be requested to give the podiatrist a complete picture of the condition of your ankle. The foot doctor will also want to know about previous ankle injuries and how they were treated.

Treatment for chronic ankle instability may include:

  • Nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory medications (such as ibuprofen) to reduce inflammation, pain and swelling

  • Bracing the ankle for support and to prevent the ankle from turning

  • Physical therapy which will include exercises and other treatments aimed at strengthening ankle muscles and improving range of motion and balance.

Be sure to finish the complete course of treatment. Failing to do so is likely to result in another ankle sprain. If you have concerns about the stability of your ankle, contact us for a consultation.