Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon · Last reviewed: April 2026 · Editorial Policy
The most important clinical decision with Lateral Ankle Ligament Reconstruction Brostrom Gould Technique isn’t which treatment to start with — it’s identifying the correct subtype. That changes everything. Call (810) 206-1402.
Quick Answer
Lateral Ankle Ligament Reconstruction: Broström-Gould Techni relates to foot pain — typically caused by overuse, footwear, or biomechanics. Most patients improve in 6-12 weeks with conservative care. Same-week appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Hills: (810) 206-1402.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-certified foot & ankle surgeon, 3,000+ surgeries performed. Updated April 2026 with current clinical evidence. This article reflects real practice experience from Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Howell and Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.
Quick Answer
Most foot and ankle problems respond to conservative care — proper footwear, supportive inserts, activity modification, and targeted stretching — within 4-8 weeks. Persistent pain beyond that window, or any symptom that prevents walking, warrants a podiatric evaluation to rule out fracture, tendon tear, or systemic cause.
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Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon — Balance Foot & Ankle, Howell & Bloomfield Hills, MI. Last updated April 2026.
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Medically Reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist, Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists, Michigan. Last updated April 2026.
Chronic lateral ankle instability — recurrent ankle sprains, persistent lateral ankle laxity, and functional giving-way despite rehabilitation — affects approximately 40% of patients following acute lateral ankle sprain and significantly impairs athletic participation and quality of life. When functional rehabilitation (peroneal strengthening, proprioceptive training, bracing) fails to provide adequate stability for desired activities, the modified Broström-Gould procedure provides anatomic reconstruction of the lateral ankle ligaments with reliable return to activity at 6 months.
Anatomy and Pathomechanics of Instability
The lateral ankle is stabilized by three ligaments: the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL — the weakest and most commonly torn), the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL — torn in moderate to severe sprains), and the posterior talofibular ligament (PTFL — rarely torn except in complete dislocations). Mechanical instability: the ATFL and CFL are elongated or torn and provide inadequate restraint to talar inversion and anterior talar translation — demonstrated clinically by a positive anterior drawer test and positive talar tilt test. Functional instability: neuromuscular deficits (impaired peroneal reaction time and proprioception) produce giving-way without measurable mechanical laxity — treated with rehabilitation rather than surgery. Combined: most chronic ankle instability patients have both mechanical laxity and neuromuscular deficits — surgery addresses the mechanical component while rehabilitation addresses the neuromuscular component.
Broström-Gould Procedure and Outcomes
Technique: curvilinear incision anterior to the lateral malleolus; ATFL and CFL identified and imbricated (shortened and tightened) by advancing the proximal end of each ligament with suture anchors into the fibula — restoring anatomic length and tension; the inferior extensor retinaculum (IER) is advanced over the repair (the Gould modification) — augments the lateral repair and addresses subtalar instability. Arthroscopic-assisted Broström: ankle arthroscopy performed first to identify and treat intra-articular pathology (chondral lesions, anterolateral impingement — present in 25–40% of chronic instability patients) before open ligament repair. Outcomes: 85–95% successful return to sport at 4–6 months; 5–10% recurrence at 5 years; excellent long-term function in appropriate candidates. Dr. Biernacki at Balance Foot & Ankle evaluates chronic ankle instability with clinical stress testing and MRI and performs the Broström-Gould procedure for appropriate candidates. Call (810) 206-1402 at our Bloomfield Hills or Howell office.
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Our board-certified podiatrists treat this condition at two convenient locations. Same-day appointments often available.
In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle
If home care isn’t resolving your your foot or ankle concern, a visit with a board-certified podiatrist is the fastest path to accurate diagnosis and a personalized plan. At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists, Dr. Tom Biernacki, Dr. Carl Jay, and Dr. Daria Gutkin offer same-day and next-day appointments at both our Howell and Bloomfield Hills offices. We perform on-site diagnostic ultrasound, digital X-ray, conservative care, advanced regenerative treatments, and minimally invasive surgery when indicated.
Call (810) 206-1402 or request an appointment online. Most insurance plans accepted, including Medicare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, and United Healthcare.
More Podiatrist-Recommended Foot Health Essentials
Hoka Clifton 10
Max-cushion everyday shoe — podiatrist favorite for walking and running.
PowerStep Pinnacle Insole
- The Pinnacle Full length insoles for men & women provide maximum cushioning, from high activity to moderate support. The PowerStep arch support shape provides stability to the foot and ankle, helping to relieve foot pain.
- When you spend all day on your feet, every step counts. PowerStep insoles are a podiatrist-recommended orthotic to help relieve & prevent foot pain related to athletes, runners, Plantar Fasciitis, heel spurs & other common foot, ankle & knee injuries
- The Pinnacle plantar fasciitis insoles offer superior heel cushioning and arch support. The dual-layer cushioning is designed to reduce stress and fatigue, while PowerStep premium arch support is designed for plantar fasciitis relief.
- The PowerStep Pinnacle arch support inserts for men & women can be worn in several shoe types such as; athletic, walking, running, work & some casual shoes. Orthotic Inserts are ordered by shoe size, no trimming required.
- Made in the USA & backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. PowerStep orthotic inserts for men & women are designed for shoes where the factory insole can be removed. HSA & FSA Eligible
The podiatrist-recommended over-the-counter orthotic.
OOFOS Recovery Slide
- The Original Recovery Footwear.
- Finding Your Size – For your perfect fit, consult the “size chart” link above. Wear a half size? In general, we recommend that women who wear a ½ size size UP, and men who wear a ½ size size DOWN
- OOahh – An evolution of the OOriginal, the OOahh slide features our proven foundation of OOfoam technology + patented footbed design with a slide-style strap that has become a best-seller in the OOFOS line
- OOfoam Technology – Our revolutionary OOfoam technology absorbs 37% more impact than traditional footwear foams to reduce the stress on your feet, joints & back. Plus, the closed-cell foam is machine washable and designed to minimize odor
- Patented Footbed – Our patented footbed cradles and supports arches to reduce energy exertion in the ankles by up to 47% compared to competitors’ footwear. So walking is easier. Recovery is faster. And yOO feel better
Impact-absorbing recovery sandal — wear after long days on your feet.
As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. Product recommendations are based on clinical experience; prices and availability shown above update live from Amazon.
When to See a Podiatrist
If foot or ankle pain has been bothering you for more than a few weeks, home care alone may not be enough. Balance Foot & Ankle offers same-week appointments at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills clinics — no referral needed in most cases. Bring your current shoes and a short list of symptoms and we’ll build you a treatment plan in one visit.
Call Balance Foot & Ankle: (810) 206-1402 · Book online · Offices in Howell & Bloomfield Hills
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I sprained or broke my ankle?
Both cause pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Key differences: fractures often cause more immediate severe pain, tenderness directly over bone (not just ligament), and inability to bear any weight. X-rays and the Ottawa Ankle Rules help determine if imaging is needed.
How long does an ankle sprain take to heal?
Grade I (mild): 1–2 weeks. Grade II (moderate): 3–6 weeks. Grade III (complete tear): 2–3 months. Chronic instability from improperly treated sprains can persist and may require surgery.
What is the best treatment for a sprained ankle?
RICE protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) for the first 48–72 hours, followed by protected weight-bearing as tolerated. Physical therapy rehabilitation is critical for high-grade sprains to restore strength and proprioception and prevent chronic instability.
Need Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle?
Dr. Tom Biernacki, Dr. Carl Jay, and Dr. Daria Gutkin see patients at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills offices.
Book Online or call (810) 206-1402
Insurance Accepted
BCBS · Medicare · Aetna · Cigna · United Healthcare · HAP · Priority Health · Humana · View All →
Howell Office
4330 E Grand River Ave
Howell, MI 48843
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Bloomfield Hills Office
43494 Woodward Ave, #208
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
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Your Board-Certified Podiatrists
Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?
Same-week appointments available at both locations.
Book Your AppointmentMost Common Mistake We See
The most common mistake we see is: Waiting too long before seeking care. Fix: any foot pain lasting more than 4 weeks, or any sudden severe symptom, deserves a professional evaluation rather than more rest.
Warning Signs That Need Same-Day Care
Seek immediate evaluation at Balance Foot & Ankle if you experience any of the following:
- Unable to bear weight
- Severe swelling with skin colour change
- Fever with foot pain (possible infection)
- Diabetes plus any new foot symptom
Call (810) 206-1402 — same-day and next-day appointments at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills offices.
Watch: Dr. Tom explains
Podiatrist-recommended products
As an Amazon Associate, Dr. Tom earns from qualifying purchases.
Post-Brostrom immobilization 2-4 weeks before transitioning to ankle brace.
View on Amazon →Post-op cold therapy reduces swelling critical for wound healing in this superficial surgery.
View on Amazon →Reduces opioid need after Brostrom-Gould procedure.
View on Amazon →Post-surgery arch support reduces lateral ankle stress during return to activity.
View on Amazon →Related resources
Ready to solve this? Book today.
Same-week appointments · Howell & Bloomfield Hills · 4.9★ (1,123+ reviews)
☎ (810) 206-1402Book Online →Pros & Cons of Conservative Care for foot care
Advantages
- ✓ Conservative care first
- ✓ Same-week appointments
- ✓ Multiple insurance accepted
Considerations
- ✗ Self-treatment can mask issues
- ✗ See a podiatrist if pain >2 weeks
Dr. Tom’s Recommended Products for foot care
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we use with patients.
Footnanny Heel Cream Dr. Tom’s Pick
Best for: Daily moisturizer for cracked heels
Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?
Same-day appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Hills. Most insurance accepted. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM & team.
Book Today — Same-Day Appointments Available
Call Now: (810) 206-1402
About Your Care Team at Balance Foot & Ankle
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeon. Specializes in conservative-first care, minimally invasive bunion surgery, and complex reconstruction.
Dr. Carl Jay, DPM · Accepting new patients. Specializes in sports medicine, athletic injuries, and routine podiatric care.
Dr. Daria Gutkin, DPM, AACFAS · Accepting new patients. Specializes in surgical reconstruction and pediatric podiatry.
Locations: 4330 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI 48843 · 43494 Woodward Ave Suite 208, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · (810) 206-1402
Dr. Tom’s Recovery Picks
Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel — Natural arnica + menthol for post-procedure soreness. We use this in our Howell and Bloomfield Hills clinics for post-injection and post-surgical recovery. FSA-eligible.
DASS Medical Compression Socks — Graduated medical compression for post-surgical swelling. Truly graduated and properly sized — not the generic S/M/L compression socks.
Disclosure: We earn a commission if you purchase — at no extra cost to you. We only recommend what we use in our clinic.
Ready for Expert Care?
Same-day appointments in Howell & Bloomfield Hills, MI.
4.9★ | 1,123 Reviews | 3,000+ Surgeries
Or call: (810) 206-1402
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a board-certified foot & ankle surgeon (ABFAS & ABPM) at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Southeast Michigan. With over a decade of clinical experience, he specializes in heel pain, bunions, diabetic foot care, sports injuries, and minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Biernacki is a member of the APMA and ACFAS, and his patient education content on MichiganFootDoctors.com and YouTube has made him one of the most-followed foot & ankle educators on YouTube.