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Ankle Pain, Instability & Tendon Disorders

Ankle Pain & Chronic Ankle Instability

Causes, symptoms, and treatment for chronic ankle pain and ankle instability, with care at 15 clinics across Middle Tennessee.

Part of Ankle Pain, Instability & Tendon Disorders

Understanding chronic ankle pain and ankle instability and your options.

Chronic ankle instability means the ankle keeps giving way. It often follows a sprain that never fully healed, leaving the ligaments loose and the ankle less steady. Pain can come and go, or stay for months.

It is common in athletes, but anyone who has sprained an ankle more than once can develop it. Getting care early can protect the joint from more damage.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788
Ankle Pain & Chronic Ankle Instability care

Symptoms

Signs of chronic ankle pain and ankle instability.

If you notice these signs, an exam can give you clear answers.

  • 01

    The ankle rolls or gives way on uneven ground

  • 02

    Ongoing aching on the outer side of the ankle

  • 03

    Swelling that returns after activity

  • 04

    A feeling that the ankle cannot be trusted

Why it happens

What can cause chronic ankle pain and ankle instability.

  • 01

    Past sprains that healed poorly

  • 02

    Ligaments stretched or torn and never tightened

  • 03

    Weak muscles around the ankle

  • 04

    Rehab stopped too early after an injury

Care groupAnkle Pain, Instability & Tendon Disorders

Diagnosis and care

How we treat chronic ankle pain and ankle instability.

Step 1 · Diagnosis

We ask how the ankle has been giving way and test how loose it feels. X-rays check the bones and joint alignment. If we suspect damage to ligaments, tendons, or cartilage, we may order an MRI or ultrasound.

Step 2 · Treatment

Most people start with physical therapy to build strength and balance. A brace or taping can steady the ankle during sports and hard work. Shoes with good support also help. Some people benefit from an injection to calm irritated tissue in the joint.

If the ankle still gives way after a good try at care, surgery can tighten or repair the ligaments. Any other damage found inside the joint can often be treated at the same time.

Recovery

What to expect over time.

Non-surgical care often takes several weeks to a few months of steady work. After surgery, full return to sports can take about four to six months or longer.

When to book

Do not wait it out.

See a podiatrist if your ankle has given way more than once or aches for weeks. Get seen soon if it swells, locks, or you cannot trust it to hold your weight.

Call 615-220-8788

Related care

More in Ankle Pain, Instability & Tendon Disorders.

FAQ

Your questions answered.

Will a brace fix my unstable ankle?

A brace can add support and lower the risk of rolling. It works best together with strengthening and balance exercises.

Can I keep exercising with an unstable ankle?

Low-impact activity is often fine, but twisting sports may be risky. Ask us what is safe for you.

Get help with chronic ankle pain and ankle instability.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788

Where we treat it

Ankle Pain & Chronic Ankle Instability care at 15 clinics.

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