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Podiatrist Toronto, ON Sheldon H. Nadal D.P.M.
586 Eglinton Avenue E. Suite 501 Toronto, Ontario M4P1P2
Local: 416-486-9917 Toll free: (877) 456-3338

Five Ankle Instability Signs and Symptoms to Look Out For

Five Ankle Instability Signs and Symptoms to Look Out For 

Chronic ankle instability affects many people, but a significant number do not know they have it. For most, having weak ankles is considered part of their genetic inheritance and not a cause for alarm.

However, if your ankles are weak and constantly giving way, you might have ankle instability.

What causes ankle instability? 

Ankle instability is most often caused by repeated sprains that weaken the ankle tissue and ligaments. In most cases, it is not the sprains themselves that cause ankle instability but inadequate joint rehabilitation during the healing process. Individuals most prone to ankle instability are athletes, overweight people, the elderly, and people who participate in intense activities like competitive ballet and dancing.

Since ankle instability does not often appear like a serious condition, here are five chronic ankle instability signs and symptoms to look out for:

1. Repeated turning of the ankle

Typically, the ankle can support sideways movements without buckling. However, if your ankle is always buckling outwards when you step sideways, you might have ankle instability. This is especially the case if you recently sprained your ankle. In most cases, if the sprain was very recent, there’s a good chance the ankle will heal, and the instability will diminish. If the sprain was not recent, you might have chronic ankle instability.

2. Chronic discomfort and swelling

In ankle instability, the ankle cannot support your weight due to muscle weakness, which stresses the foot structures, causing discomfort and swelling. Similarly, trying to compensate for the weak ankle while walking can result in a poor gait, another factor that can lead to constant discomfort and swelling. If you are unsure why your ankle is constantly swollen and uncomfortable, you might have ankle instability.

3. Pain or tenderness

Another hallmark of ankle instability is pain and tenderness related to tissues and ligaments that are not fully healed. Since ankle instability is caused by repeated sprains, often, there has not been enough time or rehabilitation to allow the ankle to recover fully before another injury occurs. Chronic pain and tenderness are a sure sign that the ankle structures require further treatment and more time to heal.

4. Wobbly ankle

You might be walking on an uneven surface and then suddenly feel your ankle wobble. Even when you try and walk straight, the wobbling still occurs. When this happens, it is a sign that your ankle muscles are weakened, and they cannot stabilize the ankle as you walk. Again, this is a classic sign of ankle instability and should prompt a visit to a foot specialist for further evaluation.

5. Load bearing challenges

When healthy, your ankle can easily support your weight in several positions, including standing, squatting, walking, and running. With ankle instability, you might find you cannot bear your weight without losing balance or your ankle bucking outwards under the weight. Although this does not happen when standing upright, you might experience this symptom when playing sports, dancing, or walking on an uneven surface.

If you see any of the signs above, you should see a podiatrist, such as Sheldon Nadal D.P.M in  Toronto who will conduct a series of examinations to establish a diagnosis. If you do have ankle instability, there are several treatment options available, including surgery, that can restore your ankle’s strength and allow you to lead a normal life.


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