Many people think they can just shake off a sprained ankle, but the way you handle the first few weeks of recovery determines your long-term mobility.
At the Podiatry Institute of Southern California, Dr. Albert Nejat sees many patients who suffer from chronic ankle instability because an initial injury failed to heal correctly.
Here’s what he tells patients.
When you sprain your ankle, you stretch or tear the ligaments that hold your bones together. If these tissues heal in a lengthened or weakened state, your ankle loses its ability to stay steady on uneven ground. Dr. Nejet focuses on comprehensive rehabilitation to ensure your ligaments regain their strength and your brain regains its connection to your foot’s position.
If you return to sports or daily activities too quickly, you risk a cycle of repetitive injury. Approximately 40% of lateral ankle sprains lead to chronic ankle instability within one year. This condition feels like your ankle is giving way or wobbling during everyday movements.
When the ligaments remain loose, the joint becomes less stable. This instability causes the cartilage in the joint to wear down faster than usual. Over time, this leads to early-onset osteoarthritis and persistent swelling. Early intervention is key to preventing this progression.
Recovery involves more than just waiting for the pain to stop. The first phase is protection and swelling control. We often use the RICE method, which stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. However, the most critical part of preventing chronic issues is the functional rehabilitation phase.
Physical therapy focuses on three main areas: range of motion, strength, and proprioception. Proprioception is your body's ability to sense movement and joint position. After an injury, this internal sensor is often damaged. If you don't retrain these sensors through balance exercises, your brain won't know how to stabilize the ankle when you step on a crack in the sidewalk. We guide patients through specific exercises that challenge the foot to react quickly to changes in terrain.
If you can't bear weight on your foot immediately after the injury or if you notice significant bruising, you need a professional evaluation. We use diagnostic tools to rule out fractures and determine the grade of the ligament tear. A Grade 3 tear involves a complete rupture and requires a much more structured recovery plan than a minor stretch.
Chronic instability doesn't have to be your new normal. Many patients find relief through custom orthotics, bracing, or specialized strengthening programs. If conservative measures fail, surgical options are available to tighten the ligaments and restore the joint's structural integrity. Our goal in Culver City is to get you back to your active lifestyle without the fear of your ankle giving out.
If you're struggling with a recent injury or a wobbly ankle, contact us today. You can call our office or use our online booking tool to schedule a consultation with Dr. Nejat.
