If you’ve been told you have Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability, you’re not alone — and you’re not stuck with it forever. This condition is quite common, especially among active adults who have had repeated ankle sprains. The good news is that with proper treatment — and when necessary, a proven surgical procedure like the Open Modified Broström Procedure — most people can regain full stability and confidence in their ankle again.
In this article, we’ll walk through what chronic lateral ankle instability really means, how it’s diagnosed, and the most effective treatment options available today.
General Points
- What Is Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability?
- Common Symptoms of Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability
- How Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability Is Diagnosed
- Treatment Options for Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability
- Surgical Treatment: The Open Modified Broström Procedure
- Benefits and Success Rates
- Why Choosing the Right Orthopedic Specialist Matters
- Take the First Step Toward a Stable, Pain-Free Ankle
What Is Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability?
Your ankle is supported by strong ligaments that keep it stable when you walk, run, or pivot. The lateral ligaments, located on the outer side of your ankle, are particularly important for preventing your ankle from rolling outward.
When you experience one or more ankle sprains, these ligaments can stretch or tear. If they don’t heal properly or remain weak, the ankle may continue to “give way” during activities. This condition is known as Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability — a long-term weakness or looseness in the ankle joint that can affect your balance, performance, and confidence with movement.
Left untreated, chronic instability can lead to repeated sprains, cartilage damage, and even early arthritis in the ankle joint.
Common Symptoms of Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability
Most patients describe a feeling that their ankle is “unreliable” or prone to rolling over. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe but often include:
- Repeated ankle sprains or “rolling” of the ankle, even on flat ground
- Persistent pain or swelling, especially along the outside of the ankle
- A feeling of weakness or looseness in the ankle
- Tenderness when touching the ligaments on the outer side
- Difficulty walking on uneven surfaces or playing sports confidently
If you’re noticing these symptoms months after an initial sprain, it’s important to get evaluated by an orthopedic specialist. Early treatment can prevent further damage and speed up your recovery.
How Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability Is Diagnosed
Diagnosis starts with a detailed conversation about your symptoms and injury history, followed by a physical examination. During your visit, your orthopedic specialist may:
- Perform stability tests by gently moving your ankle to check for looseness.
- Order imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI scans to look for ligament tears, bone injuries, or cartilage damage.
- Assess your gait and balance, since instability can affect how you walk or distribute your weight.
Accurate diagnosis helps determine whether non-surgical care is enough or if surgical repair will offer the best long-term outcome.
Treatment Options for Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability
Non-Surgical Treatment
In many mild cases, symptoms can improve with conservative care. Your orthopedic specialist might recommend:
- Physical therapy to strengthen the ankle muscles and improve balance
- Bracing or taping to support the ankle during activities
- Activity modification to avoid high-risk movements while healing
- Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling
These measures can help restore some stability, but if your ankle continues to give way — especially if you’re active or athletic — surgery may provide the best long-term solution.
Surgical Treatment: The Open Modified Broström Procedure
When non-surgical treatments aren’t enough, the Open Modified Broström Procedure is the gold standard surgical treatment for chronic lateral ankle instability. This technique is designed to repair and tighten the stretched ligaments on the outer side of the ankle, restoring strength, stability, and confidence in your movements.
How the Open Modified Broström Procedure Works
During this outpatient surgery, your orthopedic surgeon:
- Makes a small incision over the outer ankle.
- Identifies and repairs the weakened or torn ligaments (usually the anterior talofibular and calcaneofibular ligaments).
- Tightens and reinforces these ligaments using strong, absorbable sutures.
- In some cases, adds a small reinforcement using nearby tissue (such as the retinaculum) to strengthen the repair.
The goal is to restore the ankle’s natural anatomy and stability — not just to make it tighter, but to help it function normally again.
When It’s Recommended?
The Open Modified Broström Procedure is typically recommended for patients who:
- Have persistent ankle instability despite months of physical therapy
- Experience frequent sprains or “rolling” of the ankle
- Want to return to sports or physically demanding work without fear of reinjury
- Have good overall ligament and tissue quality
It’s also an excellent choice for patients under 65 who want a durable, long-term solution that allows them to stay active.
Benefits and Success Rates
The Open Modified Broström Procedure has a strong track record of success. Studies show over 90% of patients regain full ankle stability and return to their normal activities, including sports, within several months.
Key Benefits Include:
- Restored ankle stability and function
- Reduced risk of future sprains
- Less pain and swelling during activity
- Improved confidence in walking, running, or exercising
- Long-term protection against ankle arthritis caused by repeated instability
Most patients are able to return to daily activities within a few weeks and resume sports or higher-impact movement after a structured rehabilitation program.
Why Choosing the Right Orthopedic Specialist Matters
An experienced orthopedic surgeon who specializes in foot and ankle care is key to achieving the best outcome. Proper surgical technique, guided rehabilitation, and personalized care all play a major role in your recovery and long-term results.
If you’ve been struggling with ankle weakness, repeated sprains, or pain that just won’t go away, it’s time to take the next step toward lasting stability.
Your surgeon may also recommend physical therapy to restore flexibility, strength, and balance.
Following your care plan closely greatly improves your outcome — and many patients are able to return to their usual activities with confidence.
Take the First Step Toward a Stable, Pain-Free Ankle
Living with chronic ankle instability doesn’t have to be your new normal. The Open Modified Broström Procedure offers a safe, proven, and lasting solution to help you get back on your feet — confidently and without fear of the next sprain.
If you’re ready to explore your options or want a professional evaluation, schedule a consultation with our orthopedic specialist today. With expert care and modern techniques, you can look forward to a strong, stable recovery and a return to the activities you love.
