Chronic Ankle Instability
What is it: Chronic ankle instability may occur in the setting of recurrent ankle injuries or after an ankle injury was not completely rehabilitated.
How does it present: Chronic ankle instability may present with the patient feeling that the ankle is unstable, especially on uneven surfaces. They often will have pain and perhaps swelling with increased activity.
Common exam findings: The patient may have lateral ankle swelling or a positive drawer sign or Talar Tilt Test.
Tests and treatment: Ankle x-rays may be needed to rule out bony injury. Stress x-rays may show increased laxity of the ankle. Treatment is usually conservative with support and rehabilitation. In cases non-responding to conservative treatment, surgery may be indicated.