Ankle Sprains & Instability

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Rolled your ankle or keep “re-spraining” it? Get expert evaluation, bracing, rehab plans, and surgical options when needed. Same-week care in San Mateo.

An ankle sprain happens when the ankle ligaments are stretched or torn—most often on the outside (lateral) ligaments after a twist or “roll.”
Chronic ankle instability means the ankle feels loose, gives way, or sprains repeatedly, usually after one or more prior sprains that didn’t fully heal.

Common symptoms

• Pain and swelling on the outside of the ankle
• Bruising and tenderness to touch
• Difficulty bearing weight or pushing off
• “Giving way,” catching, or feeling wobbly—especially on uneven ground

Why it happens (risk factors)

• Prior ankle sprain(s)
• Weak peroneal muscles and poor balance/proprioception
• High-impact sports (cutting/pivoting)
• Foot posture (high arches or flatfoot) and unsupportive footwear

We start with a focused history and exam, checking swelling, tenderness, range of motion, and ligament stability.

• X-rays (weight-bearing when possible) rule out fractures and alignment issues.
• Ultrasound or MRI may be recommended for persistent pain, suspected tendon/ligament tears, cartilage injury, or impingement.

Most sprains and many cases of instability improve without surgery when rehab is specific and consistent.

Phase 1: Calm it down (acute care)

• Relative rest and protected weight-bearing (brace or walking boot when indicated)
• Elevation, compression, and ice in the first 48–72 hours
• Short course of anti-inflammatory measures (as appropriate)

Phase 2: Restore motion & control

• Gentle range-of-motion work → calf/peroneal strengthening
• Balance/proprioception training to prevent re-sprains
• Transition from boot to functional lace-up brace or taping

Phase 3: Return to sport/work

• Progressive loading, agility, and sport-specific drills
• Footwear guidance and supportive inserts/orthotics when foot posture contributes
• Clear, stepwise return-to-activity plan

Injections or advanced therapies may be discussed in select stubborn cases; we’ll review risks, benefits, and evidence together.

If you have recurrent sprains, persistent giving-way, or MRI-confirmed ligament insufficiency despite structured rehab, surgical stabilization may help.

• Broström-type lateral ligament repair/reconstruction (sometimes with internal augmentation)
• Arthroscopy to address scar tissue, loose bodies, or cartilage lesions when present

We’ll discuss candidacy, timelines, and expectations. Most patients rehab progressively after surgery with a focus on strength and balance.

1. Evaluation: Exam, imaging as needed, and discussion of goals.
2. Plan: A clear, staged program (brace/boot, rehab steps, and milestones).
3. Follow-up: Re-check in 2–6 weeks to progress activities and reduce reinjury risk.

• Severe pain with inability to bear weight
• A loud pop with immediate swelling/bruising
• Visible deformity or concern for fracture
• Numbness, tingling, or worsening redness/fever

• Board-certified care led by Hannah Lee, DPM
• Emphasis on evidence-based rehab and prevention first
• On-site imaging and bracing guidance; custom orthotics when helpful
• Surgical options for true instability or associated injuries

How long does an ankle sprain take to heal?
Mild sprains often improve in 2–4 weeks; moderate sprains take 4–8+ weeks. Full recovery depends on completing balance and strength work.

Do I need an X-ray or MRI?
X-rays check for fractures or alignment issues; MRI is reserved for persistent pain, suspected tendon/ligament tears, or cartilage injury.

Boot or brace?
We’ll choose based on your exam and activity. Many patients start in a boot briefly, then transition to a functional brace during rehab and return to sport.

Why do I keep re-spraining my ankle?
Often due to incomplete rehab (especially balance/proprioception) and residual ligament laxity. Targeted rehab + proper support reduce recurrence.

Let’s stabilize your ankle and build a plan to stay active safely.