Treating An Unstable Ankle

Rolled the ankle again? Ankle instability is a common problem that can lead to discomfort, pain, and repeated ankle sprains. This condition can be caused by sports injuries, poor biomechanics, and arthritis. Ankle instability is often underdiagnosed or overlooked, as the symptoms can be easily mistaken for soreness or overuse. Walking on uneven surfaces or playing sports can cause the ankle to give way repeatedly, especially on the lateral ligaments. An orthopedic specialist can assist with diagnosis and proper treatment when ankle rolling is an ongoing problem. The doctor may recommend ankle stabilization, which can provide excellent results.

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What is ankle stabilization surgery?

When repetitive ankle injuries occur, stabilization surgery can help strengthen the ankle’s ligaments. The surgery prevents future injuries and improves stability. Stabilization involves tightening the weakened ligaments and repairing any possible damage. Ankle stabilization is an outpatient procedure, meaning the patient is discharged on the same day. Minimally invasive techniques allow the surgeon to continue recovery at home. Physical therapy (PT) is usually recommended post-op to support recovery. Typically, the patient can resume normal activities within a few weeks.

How the procedure is performed

An ankle stabilization may be performed under general anesthesia and takes 2-3 hours. First, a small incision is made on the side of the leg to reach the ankle joint. A larger incision may be necessary if there is extensive damage to the ligaments. Once the incision has been made, the surgeon will begin working to rebuild the ligaments. Using a surgical tool called an arthroscope, the orthopedic surgeon will reattach the ligaments to the bone. Small metal implants help keep the ligaments and bones in place. The surgeon may also remove bone spurs or tissue damage during the procedure. This will give the ankle additional support and help restore the foot’s normal function.

Recovery and outlook

The recuperation period will vary from patient to patient, but outpatient surgery narrows the recovery timeline significantly. Most patients can return to daily routines in about 6 weeks. However, this will depend on the type of activity and how much weight is applied to the joint. For instance, running and jumping should be avoided for at least 6 weeks following surgery to allow the ligaments to heal properly. Physical therapy can also help improve ankle mechanics, which may have contributed to instability in the first place. Follow the surgeon’s instructions and attend PT consistently for the best results. Adherence is vital in reducing the risk of complications and in ensuring a quick and complete recovery.

Stronger ankles guaranteed

A stabilization procedure can help improve mobility and relieve pain in patients whose ankle has been injured, damaged, or worn away. After surgery, there may still be some limitations to the terrain the patient can walk on to avoid re-injury. Avoiding constant instability can lead to further complications. Scheduling a simple outpatient procedure can transform the way the patient moves for the better.

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“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”

“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”

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“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”

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“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”

“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”

“Dr. Best…is the best!”

“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”

“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”

“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”

“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”

“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”

“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”

“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”

“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”

“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”

“All staff were wonderful.”

“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”

“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”

“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”

“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”

“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”

“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”

“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”

“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”

“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”

“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”

“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”

“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”

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