Expert Ankle Instability Treatment in Mount Pleasant, SC
If your ankle frequently feels like it "gives out," especially when walking on uneven surfaces or participating in sports, you may be experiencing chronic ankle instability. Often developing after repeated ankle sprains or incomplete healing of a ligament injury, ankle instability can lead to ongoing pain, reduced confidence with movement, and an increased risk of future injuries.
Blake Ohlson, M.D. provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for ankle instability in Mount Pleasant, SC, helping patients restore stability, improve function, and return to an active lifestyle.
As a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and regenerative medicine specialist, Dr. Ohlson offers individualized treatment plans based on the severity of your instability, activity level, and personal goals. Treatment may include physical therapy, bracing, rehabilitation, regenerative medicine options when appropriate, or surgical ligament repair or reconstruction for patients with persistent instability.
What is Ankle Instability?
The joints of the ankle are held in place and stabilized by strong bands of tissue called ligaments. Ankle instability is a chronic condition characterized by a recurrent slipping of the outer side of the ankle. It usually results from repeated ankle sprains, which are injuries to the ligaments. Ankle instability is generally noticed when you move your ankle joint but can also occur while standing.
What Causes Ankle Instability?
Repetitive injury of the ankle ligaments on the same side is the most common cause of ankle instability. Inadequate healing of the sprained ligament or incomplete rehabilitation of the affected ligament can also result in ankle instability.
What are the Symptoms of Ankle Instability?
The most common symptoms associated with ankle instability include:
- Pain in the ankle joint
- Swelling and tenderness of the ankle
- Persistent discomfort and instability
- Giving way of the ankle while walking on uneven surfaces or during a sporting activity
How is Ankle Instability Diagnosed?
A complete medical history, including a history of any previous ankle injuries, and a physical examination is essential for an accurate diagnosis of the condition. An X-ray and other imaging tests may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and further evaluate the injury.
How is Ankle Instability Treated?
The management of ankle instability depends on the findings of the physical examination and your level of activity.
Conservative treatment
Conservative treatment for ankle instability includes:
- Physical therapy for improving the strength, balance, and range of motion of the joint
- Bracing to support the affected ankle and prevent further sprain
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce the pain and inflammation
Surgical treatment
Surgery is recommended in patients with a high degree of instability and in those who have failed to respond to non-surgical treatment. Commonly used surgical procedures involve repair or reconstruction of the damaged ligament.
Why Choose Dr. Blake Ohlson for Ankle Instability Treatment in Mount Pleasant, SC?
Chronic ankle instability can interfere with work, exercise, sports, and everyday activities while increasing your risk of repeated sprains and long-term joint damage. Dr. Blake Ohlson combines advanced orthopedic expertise with personalized care to identify the underlying cause of your instability and develop an effective treatment plan.
Patients throughout Mount Pleasant, Charleston, Summerville, and surrounding communities choose Dr. Ohlson because he offers:
- Board-certified orthopedic expertise in foot and ankle conditions
- Thorough evaluation to determine the source of chronic ankle instability
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to your activity level and lifestyle
- Advanced non-surgical treatment options to improve strength, balance, and stability
- Expertise in ligament repair and reconstruction when surgery is appropriate
- Regenerative medicine experience when clinically indicated
- Comprehensive rehabilitation programs designed to restore mobility and reduce the risk of recurrent injuries
Dr. Ohlson's goal is to help patients regain ankle stability, reduce pain, improve confidence with movement, and safely return to the activities they enjoy.
Ankle Instability FAQs
What is chronic ankle instability?
Chronic ankle instability is a condition in which the ankle repeatedly feels unstable or gives way, usually following one or more ankle sprains that have not healed completely or were not fully rehabilitated.
What causes ankle instability?
The most common cause is repeated injury to the ankle ligaments. Other contributing factors include inadequate healing after an ankle sprain, incomplete rehabilitation, weakened supporting muscles, and returning to activity too soon after an injury.
What are the symptoms of ankle instability?
Common symptoms include recurring ankle sprains, pain, swelling, tenderness, a feeling that the ankle is giving way, difficulty walking on uneven surfaces, and persistent discomfort during physical activity.
How is ankle instability diagnosed?
Diagnosis includes a detailed medical history, physical examination, and assessment of ankle stability. Imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI may be recommended to evaluate ligament damage and rule out other injuries.
Can ankle instability be treated without surgery?
Yes. Many patients improve with conservative treatment, including physical therapy, balance and strengthening exercises, ankle bracing, activity modification, and anti-inflammatory medications.
When is surgery recommended?
Surgery may be recommended when chronic instability persists despite appropriate non-surgical treatment or when significant ligament damage prevents the ankle from remaining stable during daily activities or sports.
How long does recovery take after ankle ligament surgery?
Recovery varies depending on the procedure performed and individual healing. Most patients participate in a structured rehabilitation program for several months before returning to unrestricted activity.
Can chronic ankle instability be prevented?
The risk of chronic instability can often be reduced by properly treating ankle sprains, completing a full rehabilitation program, strengthening the muscles around the ankle, improving balance, and using supportive bracing during high-risk activities when appropriate.
Schedule an Ankle Instability Evaluation in Mount Pleasant, SC
If your ankle frequently rolls, feels unstable, or continues to cause pain after previous sprains, early treatment can help prevent additional injuries and long-term joint problems. Dr. Blake Ohlson provides comprehensive ankle instability treatment in Mount Pleasant, SC, offering advanced non-surgical therapies and surgical ligament reconstruction when necessary to restore stability and function.
Contact our office today to schedule an evaluation and receive a personalized treatment plan designed to relieve pain, improve ankle stability, and help you return safely to work, sports, and everyday activities.