As you may realize, your ankles are the foundation of your independence. Whether you’re looking to get back on the golf course for a Saturday round or simply looking to enjoy long walks with your friends again, your ankles are the source of every activity you love.
Whether you’ve recently twisted your ankle or have suffered from a bad misstep that just won’t seem to heal, you are here because you know it’s time to take control of your ankle health. You shouldn’t have to settle for constant instability or a lack of trust in your next step.
If you are suffering from ankle pain or instability, at Family FootCare CT, our ankle doctors and surgeons understand how much your ankle affects your daily life, your confidence, and your independence. Book a consultation by contacting us or by giving us a call at +203-723-7884. To learn more about Family Footcare, scroll below and meet our podiatry specialists!
Dr. James M. DeJesus, Dr. Austin Davidow, Dr. Michelle DeJesus, and Dr. Betty Carreira are experienced CT podiatrists committed to helping you heal fully, move confidently, and return to the activities you love. Your recovery is our priority, and we are here to guide you every step of the way.
DPM, FACFAS, FACFO
Over 30 years of experience in podiatric surgery, medical education, and clinical leadership
DPM
More than a decade of caring for patients across Connecticut as a board-certified podiatric surgeon
DPM
Up-to-date surgical training with a conservative-first approach, guided by current research
DPM
An exercise science specialist who combines advanced surgical training with genuine empathy
Understanding Ankle Sprains
An ankle sprain occurs when one or more ligaments that stabilize the ankle are overstretched or torn, most commonly on the outer (lateral) side of the joint. Inversion injuries—where the foot rolls inward—account for the majority of ankle sprains and often involve the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL).
While many sprains heal with time, ligament healing alone does not guarantee restored stability or proper neuromuscular control.
From Acute Sprain to Chronic Instability
Chronic ankle instability develops when ligaments heal in a lengthened or weakened state, or when repeated injuries disrupt normal joint mechanics. Patients with instability often report frequent “giving way,” swelling after activity, and difficulty on stairs or uneven ground. Over time, abnormal motion within the joint can increase stress on cartilage, tendons, and surrounding joints.
Instability is not always obvious on standard exams alone. A detailed history, gait analysis, and targeted imaging are often needed to determine whether symptoms stem from ligament laxity, tendon overload, or early cartilage damage.
Diagnosis and Comprehensive Evaluation
Evaluation of ankle sprains and instability includes a careful physical examination, assessment of balance and strength, and weight-bearing digital X-rays to rule out associated fractures or alignment issues.
Imaging findings must be correlated with symptoms, as instability is often a functional problem rather than a purely structural one.
Treatment Options: Conservative to Surgical Care
Most ankle sprains and many cases of instability respond well to non-surgical treatment. Bracing, physical therapy focused on balance and strength, activity modification, and custom orthotics to improve alignment. These measures aim to restore stability while reducing strain on healing tissues.
When instability persists despite appropriate conservative care, surgical repair or reconstruction may be considered.
Surgery is recommended only when instability significantly interferes with daily life or places the joint at risk for progressive damage.
Related Conditions and Services
Ankle sprains and instability are commonly associated with conditions such as ankle arthritis, tendon injuries, high ankle sprains, cartilage lesions, and recurrent falls. Addressing these related issues is often necessary to achieve long-term stability and confidence in movement.
Our Ankle Sprain Treatment Process
1. A Thorough Stability-Focused Assessment
Your evaluation looks beyond swelling and pain to assess ligament integrity, gait mechanics, and contributing structural factors.
2. A Clear, Individualized Treatment Path
Your doctor explains conservative and surgical options, outlining why a specific approach fits your condition and activity goals.
3. A Structured Return to Confident Movement
Recovery emphasizes balance, strength, and joint awareness to reduce reinjury risk and support long-term ankle health.
Take the Next Step Toward Ankle Stability and Comfort
If ankle pain, injury, or instability is limiting your life, expert surgical evaluation can provide clarity and direction. Our team is ready to help you understand your options and move forward with confidence.
Schedule a consultation with our CT Ankle Specialists at our locations and take the next step toward stronger, more reliable movement.
Frequent Questions Answered Regarding Ankle Sprain & Chronic Instability
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn, usually as a result of the foot rolling, twisting, or turning awkwardly. It is one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries and can range from mild to severe depending on how much ligament damage has occurred.
Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, bruising, and tenderness around the ankle. You may also notice stiffness, difficulty bearing weight, and a feeling of instability or weakness in the joint.
You should seek evaluation as soon as possible, especially if your pain is severe, the swelling is significant, or you are unable to put weight on your foot. Even moderate sprains benefit from professional assessment, as untreated injuries can lead to long-term complications.
Chronic ankle instability develops when the ligaments do not heal properly after a sprain, leaving the ankle feeling loose, weak, or unreliable. People with this condition often experience repeated sprains, a sensation that the ankle is giving way, and persistent discomfort during everyday activities.
Common signs include frequent ankle sprains, ongoing pain or swelling, a feeling that your ankle cannot be trusted on uneven surfaces, and difficulty with activities like walking, running, or climbing stairs. A thorough evaluation by experienced CT podiatrists can confirm the diagnosis and guide your treatment plan.
Mild sprains may improve with rest, ice, compression, and elevation. However, many sprains, particularly moderate to severe ones, require professional care to heal correctly. Without proper rehabilitation, the risk of developing chronic instability increases significantly.
Treatment depends on the severity of your injury and may include physical therapy, custom orthotics, bracing, anti-inflammatory care, and in some cases, surgical intervention. Our ankle surgeons and ankle doctors will work with you to create a personalized plan focused on your recovery and long-term function.
Not always. Many patients respond well to conservative treatments such as physical therapy and bracing. However, when instability persists despite non-surgical care, surgical options may be recommended to restore strength and stability to the joint.
