Ankle Instability Treatment in Victoria, TX

Chronic ankle instability causes repeated giving way or a feeling that the ankle is unreliable, often after a sprain. Ligament injury, reduced strength, and balance changes can contribute. Dr. Matthew Eberly evaluates recurring ankle problems in Victoria, TX and discusses rehabilitation, support, and surgery when needed.

Symptoms

The ankle rolls or gives out, often with no warning
Repeated sprains on the same side
A wobbly feeling on gravel, grass, or stairs
Swelling that returns after activity
Ongoing soreness on the outside of the ankle
Less confidence walking in the dark or on rough ground
Tenderness just below the outer ankle bone

Locking, catching, or a deep ache inside the joint can point to cartilage damage. That is a separate finding and it changes the plan.

What causes ankle instability

Some people develop ongoing instability after an ankle sprain. Assessment looks at ligament support, strength, balance, and other factors that may contribute to repeated giving way.

Two things get lost along the way:

Support from the ligaments themselves
Position sense inside the joint, which helps your body react when the foot lands on uneven ground

Other factors raise the risk: a high arch, a heel that sits turned inward, past ankle fractures, and arthritis in the joint.

Rehabilitation after a sprain can help restore strength, balance, and control. Dr. Eberly evaluates recurring symptoms rather than assuming every ankle problem has the same cause.

How Dr. Eberly diagnoses it

He asks how many times the ankle has gone out and what you were doing each time. That history tells him a lot before he touches the foot.

Then he tests the ligaments by hand, moving the ankle in specific directions to feel how far the joint opens. He checks the outer ankle bone for sore spots. He looks at the tendons behind it. Then he watches your balance and the way your heel sits when you stand.

Imaging depends on the examination and symptoms. X-rays may assess bone alignment or prior injury. MRI or other testing may be considered when additional ligament, tendon, or cartilage information is needed.

Treatment

Most people improve without surgery:

Rehabilitation can address strength, balance, and control of the ankle. Exercises and progression should be tailored to your symptoms and activity goals.
Bracing may be recommended for sport or rough ground based on the examination.
Supportive shoes may help some patients.
Orthotics may be considered when heel or arch position contributes to ankle loading.
Temporary immobilization may be used when symptoms require rest, followed by strength work.
Medication for pain or inflammation may be appropriate after a review of your health history and other medicines.

If the ankle keeps giving out after months of proper rehab, surgery can tighten or rebuild those outer ligaments. Dr. Eberly is board-certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. He will walk you through what the exam and the imaging show before that conversation goes any further.

What recovery looks like

Recovery is guided by progress in pain, swelling, strength, and balance. Your clinician will advise when to increase walking, work, and sport, and whether support is needed during the return to activity.

Surgical recovery depends on the procedure. It involves time in a boot and then a course of therapy. Dr. Eberly gives you the timeline for your ankle before you commit to anything.

When to see a podiatrist

You have sprained the same ankle more than once
The ankle gives out on flat ground
Swelling keeps coming back after activity
You avoid certain surfaces, shoes, or activities because you do not trust the ankle
After a new injury, seek prompt assessment if you cannot bear weight or have severe pain or swelling
The joint feels like it catches or locks

Book an appointment

Call 361-576-3338 (FEET) or use our online appointment request form.

Victoria Foot & Ankle Center is at 2700 Hospital Dr, Building A, Suite 101 in Victoria, TX. Dr. Matthew Eberly, DPM sees patients from Victoria, Beeville, Cuero, Port Lavaca, Yorktown, and across the Crossroads.