Expert Ankle Sprain & Chronic Instability Treatment

Reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon | Updated April 2026

⭐ 4.9 stars · 1,123+ Google Reviews · Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon (FACFAS) · Same-Day Appointments Available

By Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM | Double Board-Certified Podiatrist | Last Updated: April 2026

At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists, our board-certified podiatrists provide comprehensive treatment for ankle sprains and chronic ankle instability. Whether you’re dealing with a fresh sprain or recurring instability that makes your ankle feel like it’s “giving way,” we offer evidence-based solutions to get you back on your feet.

Ankle Sprain Treatment

Ankle sprains are one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries, affecting millions of Americans each year. Our approach includes thorough evaluation with in-office imaging, personalized treatment plans, and rehabilitation protocols designed to restore full function and prevent recurrence.

Treatment options include immobilization and bracing, physical therapy and proprioceptive training, regenerative medicine therapies, and when conservative measures aren’t enough, minimally invasive surgical repair.

Chronic Ankle Instability

If you’ve experienced multiple ankle sprains or feel your ankle is unstable, you may have chronic ankle instability. This condition develops when ligaments don’t heal properly after an initial sprain, leading to repeated episodes of the ankle giving way.

Our treatment approach combines advanced diagnostics, targeted strengthening protocols, custom ankle bracing, and surgical ligament repair or reconstruction when indicated.

Schedule Your Evaluation

Don’t let ankle pain and instability limit your activities. Contact our offices in Howell or Bloomfield Hills to schedule your evaluation today.

Call us: (810) 206-1402

Book Your Appointment Online →

Active Recovery in Livingston County

After ankle sprain recovery, getting back to low-impact walking is a key milestone. Our Howell office is surrounded by excellent trail options for gentle rehabilitation exercise. See the best trails for ankle rehab in Livingston County, rated by our podiatrist →

🚶 Ankle rehab walking? Explore the best walking trails in Livingston County — Dr. Tom’s picks rated for safe ankle sprain rehabilitation and low-impact recovery.

Types of Ankle Sprains and How They Are Diagnosed

Ankle sprains are classified into three grades based on the severity of ligament damage. A Grade 1 sprain involves mild stretching with microscopic tears in the ligament fibers, typically causing mild tenderness, swelling, and some joint stiffness. Grade 2 sprains involve partial tearing of the ligament, producing moderate pain, swelling, and bruising along with abnormal looseness in the joint. Grade 3 sprains represent a complete tear of the ligament, resulting in significant swelling, substantial bruising, and instability of the joint.

At Balance Foot and Ankle, our podiatrists perform a comprehensive evaluation including physical examination, weight-bearing X-rays to rule out fractures, and in some cases MRI imaging to assess soft tissue damage. The anterior drawer test and talar tilt test help determine the degree of ligament laxity and guide treatment planning.

Conservative Treatment Options for Ankle Sprains

Most ankle sprains respond well to conservative treatment when managed by a podiatrist. The initial protocol follows the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) during the acute phase. Our treatment approach typically includes immobilization with a walking boot or ankle brace, anti-inflammatory medications for pain management, and a structured physical therapy program to restore range of motion and strength.

For moderate to severe sprains, we may recommend MLS laser therapy to reduce inflammation and accelerate tissue healing. Regenerative treatments including platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy can also promote faster ligament repair in appropriate candidates. Custom ankle bracing and orthotic support help prevent re-injury during the recovery period.

Chronic Ankle Instability: When Sprains Keep Recurring

Approximately 20 to 40 percent of patients who experience an ankle sprain develop chronic ankle instability, a condition characterized by repeated episodes of the ankle giving way. This occurs when the initial sprain does not heal completely or when adequate rehabilitation is not performed, leaving the ligaments weakened and the proprioceptive nerves impaired.

Symptoms of chronic ankle instability include a persistent feeling of wobbliness or instability, recurring ankle sprains during everyday activities, chronic discomfort and swelling, and difficulty walking on uneven surfaces. Without proper treatment, chronic instability can lead to progressive joint damage and early-onset ankle arthritis.

Surgical Options for Severe Ankle Instability

When conservative treatments fail to resolve chronic ankle instability, surgical intervention may be recommended. The most common procedure is the Brostrom repair, which tightens and reattaches the stretched or torn lateral ligaments to restore stability. In cases with severe ligament deterioration, a modified Brostrom procedure with augmentation may be performed using adjacent tissue or synthetic grafts for additional support.

Arthroscopic ankle surgery can address concurrent problems such as loose cartilage fragments, scar tissue, or early cartilage damage that often accompany chronic instability. Recovery from ankle stabilization surgery typically involves four to six weeks in a protective boot followed by a progressive rehabilitation program lasting three to four months.

When to See a Podiatrist for an Ankle Sprain

You should seek professional evaluation from a podiatrist if you experience any of the following after an ankle injury: inability to bear weight on the affected foot, severe swelling that does not improve within 48 hours, bruising that spreads significantly, a popping sensation at the time of injury, numbness or tingling in the foot, or a history of repeated ankle sprains. Early professional intervention dramatically reduces the risk of developing chronic instability and long-term complications.

At Balance Foot and Ankle, Dr. Tom Biernacki and our team provide same-week appointments for acute ankle injuries. We offer comprehensive diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and the latest in ankle rehabilitation protocols to get you back on your feet as quickly and safely as possible. Schedule your ankle evaluation today or call (810) 206-1402.

What Our Patients Say About Ankle Treatment

I sprained my ankle playing basketball and went to Balance Foot and Ankle the next day. They did X-rays on the spot, confirmed no fracture, and started treatment right away. I was back on the court in four weeks.

— Jason C., Brighton

After years of recurring ankle sprains, I finally went to Dr. Tom for a proper evaluation. He found ligament damage that other doctors had missed and got me the treatment I needed. My ankle is stronger than it has been in years.

— Amanda B., Howell

Related Treatments & Resources

At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists, we offer comprehensive care for ankle injuries and related conditions. Explore our treatment options:

• EPAT Shockwave Therapy — Accelerate healing for chronic ankle pain and soft tissue injuries
• MLS Laser Therapy — Reduce inflammation and pain with FDA-cleared laser treatment
• Custom 3D Orthotics — Stabilize your ankle and prevent re-injury with precision-fit orthotics
• Sports Medicine — Return-to-sport protocols and athletic injury rehabilitation
• Plantar Fasciitis Treatment — Related heel and foot pain conditions
• Howell Office — 4330 E Grand River Ave, Howell MI
• Bloomfield Hills Office — 43494 Woodward Ave #208, Bloomfield Hills MI
• Insurance & Costs — Accepted plans, self-pay options, and payment information

Related Conditions & Treatments

Ankle injuries can affect your overall foot health. Our podiatrists also specialize in:

• Plantar Fasciitis — heel pain often develops from gait changes after ankle sprains
• Peripheral Neuropathy — nerve damage that can complicate ankle injury recovery
• Diabetic Foot Care — diabetic patients face higher risk of ankle complications
• Bunion Treatment — bunions can alter your gait and increase sprain risk
• Ingrown Toenail Treatment — comprehensive nail care services

Clinical Sources

1. Waterman BR, et al. “The Epidemiology of Ankle Sprains in the United States.” J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2010;92(13):2279-2284. PubMed
2. Doherty C, et al. “The Incidence and Prevalence of Ankle Sprain Injury.” Sports Med. 2014;44(1):123-140. PubMed
3. Vuurberg G, et al. “Diagnosis, treatment and prevention of ankle sprains: update of an evidence-based clinical guideline.” Br J Sports Med. 2018;52(15):956. PubMed
4. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. “Sprained Ankle.” AAOS OrthoInfo

Understanding Chronic Ankle Instability

Chronic ankle instability (CAI) develops when the ligaments damaged during an ankle sprain never fully heal or when the proprioceptive nerve fibers within those ligaments are permanently disrupted. The result is an ankle that feels unstable, gives way during normal activities, and is vulnerable to repeated sprains — sometimes from something as simple as stepping off a curb or walking on uneven ground.

Research shows that up to 40% of acute ankle sprains progress to chronic instability, making it one of the most common long-term consequences of this seemingly minor injury. The patients we see with CAI at Balance Foot & Ankle often have a history of multiple sprains over months or years, each one weakening the ligaments further and creating a cycle of re-injury. The critical window for intervention is during the initial sprain recovery — proper rehabilitation during the first 6-8 weeks dramatically reduces the likelihood of developing chronic problems.

Advanced Treatment Options at Balance Foot & Ankle

For patients whose ankle instability has not responded to bracing and physical therapy, Dr. Tom offers several advanced treatment options. MLS laser therapy reduces inflammation and promotes tissue healing in damaged ligaments, while EPAT shockwave therapy can stimulate collagen remodeling in chronically weakened ligament tissue.

For severe chronic instability where conservative treatments have been exhausted, surgical ligament repair or reconstruction may be recommended. The most common procedure is a modified Brostrom repair, which tightens and reattaches the stretched anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) to restore mechanical stability. This is performed as an outpatient procedure, and most patients return to full activity within 3-4 months. Dr. Tom evaluates each case individually using physical examination, stress X-rays, and MRI when needed to determine the optimal treatment approach for your specific pattern of instability.

Whether you are dealing with a fresh ankle sprain or years of chronic instability, getting the right diagnosis early makes all the difference. Our sports medicine program includes comprehensive ankle evaluation and individualized treatment plans designed to get you back to your active lifestyle safely. We accept most major insurance plans including BCBS, Medicare, and United Healthcare.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ankle Sprains

How long does it take for an ankle sprain to heal?

Grade 1 sprains typically heal within one to three weeks with proper care. Grade 2 sprains require three to six weeks for recovery. Grade 3 sprains with complete ligament tears may take six to twelve weeks or longer, especially if surgery is required. Working with a podiatrist ensures appropriate rehabilitation at each stage of recovery.

Can I walk on a sprained ankle?

For mild Grade 1 sprains, limited walking with an ankle brace is generally acceptable. For Grade 2 and 3 sprains, you should avoid weight-bearing until evaluated by a podiatrist. Walking on a moderate to severe sprain can worsen the damage and significantly delay healing. A walking boot may be prescribed to allow protected weight-bearing during recovery.

Does insurance cover ankle sprain treatment?

Most health insurance plans cover ankle sprain evaluation and treatment as a medical condition. This typically includes office visits, diagnostic imaging such as X-rays and MRI, physical therapy, and surgical intervention when medically necessary. Our office accepts most major insurance plans and can verify your specific coverage before your appointment. Visit our insurance and costs page for more details.

How do I prevent ankle sprains from recurring?

Prevention strategies include completing a full rehabilitation program after each sprain, performing daily balance and proprioception exercises, wearing supportive footwear appropriate for your activities, using an ankle brace during high-risk sports, and considering custom orthotics to improve foot alignment. If you experience repeated sprains, professional evaluation for chronic instability is essential.

Watch: Ankle Sprain Recovery by Dr. Tom Biernacki

Clinical References

• Doherty C, Delahunt E, Caulfield B, Hertel J, Ryan J, Bleakley C. The incidence and prevalence of ankle sprain injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective epidemiological studies. Sports Med. 2014;44(1):123-140. doi:10.1007/s40279-013-0102-5
• Hertel J. Functional anatomy, pathomechanics, and pathophysiology of lateral ankle instability. J Athl Train. 2002;37(4):364-375.
• Vuurberg G, Hoorntje A, Wink LM, et al. Diagnosis, treatment and prevention of ankle sprains: update of an evidence-based clinical guideline. Br J Sports Med. 2018;52(15):956. doi:10.1136/bjsports-2017-098106

Related Conditions & Treatments

Ankle giving out on you? Don’t wait — chronic instability gets worse without treatment. Same-day evaluation available. Call (810) 206-1402 or book online.

Related: sports medicine podiatry, MLS laser therapy for faster recovery, and ankle support with custom orthotics.

Serving Patients Across Southeast Michigan

Balance Foot & Ankle provides expert podiatric care from two convenient locations. Our Howell office serves patients from Brighton, Hartland, Fowlerville, Pinckney, Fenton, Hamburg, Whitmore Lake, South Lyon, and throughout Livingston County. Our Bloomfield Hills office serves Birmingham, Troy, West Bloomfield, Pontiac, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Royal Oak, Clarkston, Lake Orion, Rochester Hills, Waterford, Commerce Township, Novi, and Walled Lake across Oakland County.

Who treats you

Board-certified care at both Michigan locations

Dr. Tom Biernacki DPM, FACFAS
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Dr. Carl Jay DPM, Fellowship
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Dr. Daria Gutkin DPM
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Most insurance accepted · On-site X-ray · Board-certified podiatrists

Howell · (810) 206-1402 Bloomfield · (248) 335-0322

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