Ankle Sprains & Injures in Mechanicsville VA
Ankle Sprains and Instability
Ankle sprains occur when patients twist or roll their ankle especially in activities with side-to-side motion. Acute ankle sprains can be treated with physical therapy, bracing, ice and anti-inflammatory medications depending on severity.
If acute ankle sprains are treated incorrectly, patients may return to activity too soon. In such cases, the damaged ankle ligaments may heal in a stretched position which leads to chronic instability. Patients with a history of ankle sprains may eventually require stabilization.
Ankle Sprain Treatment Options:
Lateral Ankle Stabilization Surgery
Instability in the ankle joint is caused by damage to the lateral ankle ligaments, most commonly the anterior talofibular ligament. In patients that have instability and chronic ankle pain, surgical intervention can be considered.
Surgery consists of repair and tightening of the damaged ligaments. In some instances, augmentation of the damaged ligaments may be needed depending on the severity.
Arthroscopic Ankle Surgery
Ankle Arthroscopy is a type of surgery which involves minimal incision sites and the utilization of a camera as guidance within the ankle joint. The camera provides visualization of the joint in order to diagnose and repair diseased or injured structures within the ankle. It can be utilized concomitantly with lateral ankle stabilization to clean out synovitis following ankle sprain. Arthroscopy is also typically used for early stage arthritis, osteochondral lesions and ankle impingement.
The benefit of arthroscopic ankle surgery is the decreased recovery time as it allows for patients to weight bear early in their post-operative course. However, the procedure does have some limitations and it is up to a discussion between you and your surgeon whether ankle arthroscopy is the right choice for you.
Why G2 Orthopedics and Sports Medicine?
To our Ankle Specialist, Dr. Anson Chu patient care is of the utmost importance. He is committed to finding the best treatment plan suited for each patient and exhausting all conservative measures before surgical intervention. He is dedicated to staying up to date with the latest foot and ankle research in order to find the best approach to fit the lifestyle goals of his patients.
G2 Orthopedics and Sports Medicine is Richmond & Midlothian VA’s boutique orthopedic surgery and sports medicine practice that focuses on individualized patient care in a comfortable environment. Request an appointment online or give us a call at 804-375-4322 to get started.
