About
Overview
What Is Ankle Instability?
Ankle Instability occurs when the ligaments supporting the ankle become stretched, loose, or torn, usually following repeated ankle sprains. Over time, the ankle becomes weak and unstable, making it prone to frequent twists, difficulty on uneven surfaces, and chronic pain. Without proper treatment, instability can lead to cartilage damage and early arthritis.
Symptoms That May Indicate You Need Treatment
- Frequent ankle twisting.
- Swelling around the outer side of the ankle.
- Pain when walking on uneven ground.
- A “giving-way” or unstable sensation.
- Difficulty running or playing sports.
- Tenderness over the lateral ligaments.
Treatment Options
- Strengthening Exercises.
- Bracing.
- PRP Injection.
- Ligament Repair.
- Acute complete ligament tears.
- Persistent symptoms despite conservative care.
- Usually involves repairing the torn ATFL/CFL ligaments.
- Reconstruction for Chronic Instability.
- Tendon graft reconstruction.
- Persistent symptoms despite conservative care.Anatomic ligament reconstruction.
- Provides long-lasting stability for active patients.
Focused physiotherapy to strengthen peroneal muscles and improve balance (proprioception).
Ankle braces support the joint and prevent recurrent twisting, especially during sports.
Helps in healing partial ligament tears and reducing chronic inflammation.
Recommended for:
Used when ligaments are too stretched or weak to repair:
Procedure Details
How Do I Prepare for Ligament Repair / Reconstruction?
- Clinical exam and MRI to assess ligament injury.
- Review of medications and any medical conditions.
- Pre-operative physiotherapy may be recommended.
- Stop smoking to improve healing.
- Instructions on fasting and postoperative care.
- Preparing crutches or walker for initial recovery.
What Happens During This Procedure?
- Performed under regional or general anaesthesia.
- Small incisions made on the outer side of the ankle.
- Ligament Repair: torn ligaments are tightened and secured with anchors.
- Reconstruction: tendon graft is used to recreate strong, stable ligaments.
- Stability is checked before closure.
- A protective splint or boot is applied.
What Happens After This Procedure?
- You may go home after 1-2 days.
- Ankle is immobilized in a cast or boot for 2–4 weeks.
- Gradual physiotherapy to regain strength and balance.
- Swelling reduces over several weeks.
- Running and sports are resumed only after full rehabilitation.
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How Long Is Recovery After This Procedure?
- Return to walking: 4 weeks.
- Return to normal activities: 6–8 weeks.
- Sports and high-impact activity: post 4-6 months.
- Reconstruction may take slightly longer than repair.
Most patients regain full stability and return to active lifestyles.
When Should I Call My Healthcare Provider After This Procedure?
Seek help if you notice:
- Excessive swelling or redness.
- Fever or chills.
- Numbness or persistent tingling.
- Difficulty moving the ankle or toes.
- Discharge from the incision.
- Sudden instability or pain.
Doctors & Departments
Departments and Specialties
Astenortho has one of the largest and most experienced practices. Staff skilled in dozens of specialties work together to ensure quality care and successful recovery.
Departments with Related Expertise
Doctors Who Perform This Procedure
Care at Astenortho
Astenortho's Approach
Cutting-Edge Technology
AstenOrtho is Kerala’s Most Tech-Advanced Orthopaedic Hospital, with advanced robotics and some of the finest health-tech, which has proven time and again to give excellent patient outcomes. Our seasoned specialists combine their experience and AstenOrtho’s technological edge to keep evolving the AS.10 Robotic Precision Protocols; to keep pushing the bar of the care delivery models.
Collaboration
We host some of the best surgeons, specialists, therapists, and healthcare workers who work as one strong team to ensure best possible treatment outcomes, and ‘Zero Compromise Care’ for our patients at AstenOrtho.
Compassion
We understand the human urge of keep doing and wanting to do the things they love. At AstenOrtho, ‘Do What You Love’ is the core philosophy that drives us to ensure that we give our best shot in achieving the ‘Desired Mobility’, our patients need.
Our Centres & Departments
Costs and Insurance
AstenOrtho is empanelled with leading insurance providers both within and outside India. For more details on a specific insurance provider or to understand the insurance process, you can write to us: hello@astenortho.com