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Home Physical Therapy Injuries and Conditions Foot and Ankle Injuries Chronic Ankle Laxity
by Us3eNumb3rZERO

Chronic Ankle Laxity

Chronic ankle laxity is instability of the ankle joint. Instability occurs because of previous ankle injuries. The ligaments of the ankle do not provide full support because of previous sprains and strains. The ankle did not heal properly or has lost strength.

As a result, the ankle may feel weak, unstable, or prone to “giving way,” especially on uneven surfaces or during physical activity. Over time, this instability can alter normal movement patterns and place extra stress on surrounding muscles, tendons, and joints.

Chronic ankle laxity may also be accompanied by ongoing swelling, discomfort, stiffness, or repeated minor sprains. Without proper rehabilitation, the ankle can lose both mechanical stability and functional stability. If left untreated, this condition can increase the risk of further injury and contribute to long-term joint problems, including cartilage damage or early arthritis.

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    Symptoms

    • Feeling of an ankle giving away or feeling unstable
    • Swelling
    • Pain

    Diagnosis

    Your physician will evaluate your injury by taking a complete medical history, including mechanism of injury, prior injuries and symptoms. Your physician will also perform a complete physical examination of your ankle. In addition, your physician may recommend an x-ray of your ankle or your physician may recommend an MRI.

    Treatment

    • Physical therapy is your first step in trying to strengthen the ankle.
    • An ankle brace may be suggested.
    • Take an anti-inflammatory or pain medication as prescribed by your physician.
    • Ice for 20 minutes on with 40 minutes off throughout the day.
    • Elevate your ankle.
    • Use an ace wrap or ankle brace to reduce swelling in your ankle.

    Surgery

    If your ankle remains unstable, surgery is an option to reconstruct the damaged ligaments.

    Prevention

    You can prevent chronic ankle instability by properly rehabbing your ankle after an injury. You should continue the exercise on your own in order to keep the muscles surrounding the ankle strong.

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