Did you know 40 to 70% of individuals who sustain a lateral ankle sprain will go on to experience chronic ankle instability (CAI)? You might be saying, “Wait, it’s not even that serious?” And it surely won’t be an ongoing problem when the appropriate measures are implemented after an ankle injury.
For my chronic ankle instability individuals, I will answer nine questions to help you understand this condition and rehab considerations to make for a healthy ankle.
- What is chronic ankle instability (CAI)?
Chronic ankle instability is a condition when you have a reoccurrence of your ankle giving way. It can be the result of multiple ankle sprains, weakening the ligaments along your ankle.
- Am I at risk of developing CAI?
Individuals who have sustained an ankle injury and forgo taking part in balance training are at an increased risk. As one ankle injury, not fully rehabbed, can cause a cascade effect, resulting in more ankle injuries in the future.
- What are signs I may be experiencing CAI?
You may experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, ankle stiffness, or reports of the ankle giving way. It can certainly be a puzzling injury because not all have complaints of pain until performing dynamic activities.
- What’s the difference between functional versus mechanical instability?
With functional instability, you may report feeling unstable performing dynamic activities, like playing a sport. Whereas, mechanical instability is usually confirmed by a physical exam, with increased looseness noted along with your ligaments.
- Is imaging needed for a diagnosis?
No. Naturally, some individuals have lax ligaments that may not result in any problems.
CAI is induced frequently during activities that require increased ankle control, like jumping, running, and changing direction. Your physical therapist can evaluate factors (ankle mobility, muscle control, strength, balance, etc.) while completing dynamic movements to confirm.
- Do I need physical therapy?
Absolutely! Your physical therapist will create an individualized program to address the findings that may decrease your chances of another tweaked ankle.
Your treatment plan will vary from others, but you will complete exercises not only to address your ankle strength, but your overall lower and core strength, motor control, and ability to balance during dynamic tasks.
- How long do I need to complete PT?
An abundance of research recommends a minimum of six weeks of balance training to retrain your body and to improve one’s overall stability and movement.
- Will CAI affect me in the future?
Not addressing your ankle stability can certainly result in permanent articular cartilage damage. This can further lead to early arthritis because your ankle joint may not move as smoothly.
- After completing PT, what if I’m still having instances of my ankle giving way?
Surgery may be necessary with persistent symptoms, even after six months of physical therapy. About 20 -25% of people will undergo a surgical procedure to repair ligaments.
In the following post, I will spill all you need to know about this surgery to help you return and stay on the pitch.