Chronic Ankle
Instability

Chronic ankle instability is a condition characterised by the recurrent giving way of the outer side of the ankle, often following repeated sprains. This instability can lead to persistent discomfort and frequent injuries. Causes include ligament damage, muscle weakness, and inadequate rehabilitation of initial ankle sprains. Symptoms include frequent ankle “giving way,” pain, swelling, and tenderness. Elite Foot Care provides expert diagnosis, treatment, and preventive care to manage and overcome chronic ankle instability on the Sunshine Coast.

What is Chronic Ankle Instability?

Chronic ankle instability is a condition defined by a recurring “giving way” of the outer side of the ankle. This typically occurs while walking, exercising, or standing. The problem is often noticed after repeated ankle sprains and can lead to persistent discomfort and an increased risk of further injuries.

Chronic Ankle Instability - Elite Foot Care Sunshine Coast Podiatrists

Causes of Chronic Ankle Instability

Chronic ankle instability is primarily caused by previously insufficiently healed ankle sprains. When an ankle injury, such as a sprain, is not properly treated or rehabilitated, the ligaments that support the ankle become weak and less capable of maintaining stability.

Other contributing factors include:

  1. Ligament Damage: The ligaments of the ankle (the anterior talofibular, posterior talofibular, and calcaneofibular) may be overstretched or torn during a sprain, compromising their function.
  2. Muscle Weakness: Inadequate strength in the muscles surrounding the ankle can affect balance and stability.
  3. Improper Rehabilitation: Ankle injuries require proper rehabilitation programs to restore strength, flexibility, and proprioception. Skipping or inadequately completing rehabilitation increases instability risks.

Symptoms of Chronic Ankle Instability

Recognising the symptoms of chronic ankle instability is crucial for early intervention. Some common symptoms include:

  • Frequent episodes of the ankle failing during physical activities or even walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Persistent discomfort and swelling in the ankle, especially after intense physical activities.
  • Recurring tenderness and pain along the outer edge of the ankle.
  • Feeling unsteady on surfaces that are uneven or sloped.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of chronic ankle instability involves a combination of medical history evaluation and physical examinations conducted by one of our podiatrists. The diagnostic process may include:

  1. Medical History: An in-depth review of the patient’s history of ankle injuries or sprains.
  2. Physical Examination: A comprehensive examination to assess swelling, bruising, tenderness, and ligament stiffness around the ankle.
  3. VALD Stability Tests: Functional tests to evaluate the stability and balance of the ankle with our VALD measurement technology.
  4. Imaging Tests: In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI’s might be recommended to better understand the extent of ligament damage and rule out fractures.

Treatment Options for Chronic Ankle Instability

At Elite Foot Care, we use a comprehensive  approach to manage and treat chronic ankle instability. Treatment options are personalised based on the severity of the instability and the specific needs of the patient.

In severe cases, a surgical referral might be considered to reconstruct damaged ligaments.

Our treatment options include:

Sunshine Coast Custom Orthotics

Custom Orthotics

A custom orthotic supports and aligns your lower limb putting the muscles and joints it in a position of congruence. Elite Foot Care has a state of the art custom orthotics manufacturing lab on the Sunshine Coast. This allows us to have complete control over the manufacturing process, resulting in

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Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy has positive effects on tissue regeneration for tendons, bones, muscles and cartilage. It is a great treatment option for acute and longterm soreness and injury. The Swiss DolorClast® Shockwave uses single acoustic pressure waves to treat musculoskeletal and dermatological pathologies.

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Footwear Assessment

Footwear Assessments

Elite Foot Care have access to a broad range of footwear designed for all walks of life at our Woombye and Sippy Downs locations! As part of our podiatry service, our podiatrists are able to provide you with the suitable, recommended footwear options from our own footwear store. Alternatively we

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Gait and Running Assessments

VALD Performance Assessments

Elite Foot Care are proud to provide patients with a unique access to high performance data measurement tools used to thoroughly assess and optimise all musculoskeletal rehabilitation.

VALD Human Measurement Technology are the leaders in data collection worldwide, with Elite Foot Care being one of the only podiatrists in

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Foot and Ankle Strapping - Elite Foot Care

Strapping

Foot and ankle strapping is a therapeutic technique used by podiatrists to stabilise affected areas, prevent exacerbation of injuries, and promote healing. By using high-quality, non-elastic, or elastic tape, strapping can provide temporary relief and support for various foot and ankle conditions.

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Moon Boot - Elite Foot Care

Moon Boot

Moon boots, or walking boots, are specially designed orthopedic devices used to support the foot and ankle during the recovery process from injuries or surgery. These boots help in immobilizing the affected area, reducing pain and swelling, and promoting faster healing while allowing some degree of mobility.

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Footwear Modification - Elite Foot Care

Footwear Modifications

Footwear modifications involve making specific adjustments to shoes to enhance their fit, comfort, functionality, and support. These modifications can address a range of foot and lower limb issues, helping to prevent pain and injury while promoting optimal foot health.

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Ankle Foot Orthotic - Elite Foot Care

Ankle Foot Orthotics

Custom Ankle Foot Orthotics are personalised devices designed to support the foot and ankle, correct conditions, and improve overall function and mobility. They are tailored to each patient’s anatomical specifications and specific medical conditions, offering superior support compared to off-the-shelf options.

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Exercise Prescription - Elite Foot Care

Exercise Prescription

Exercise prescription using the VALD Performance Assessment system involves tailoring rehabilitation programs based on detailed biomechanical analysis. This approach allows for the design of progressive rehab programs aimed at addressing specific patient needs, optimising recovery, and enhancing overall performance.

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Prevention

Your first step should always be preventing chronic ankle instability, especially for athletes or individuals with an active lifestyle. Preventative measures include:

    • Strengthening Exercises: Regular exercises to strengthen muscles around the ankle.
    • Proprioceptive Training: Balance exercises that improve neuromuscular control.
    • Proper Footwear: Wearing appropriate shoes that offer good support and fit well.
    • Regular Assessments: Regular check-ups with a podiatrist to assess and monitor your ankles.

 

At Elite Foot Care, we are committed to providing expert diagnosis, treatment, and preventive care for individuals experiencing this condition. If you’re experiencing symptoms of ankle instability or have recently suffered an ankle injury, we encourage you to consult with our experienced podiatrists. Our goal is to ensure you regain strength, stability, and confidence in your movements, preventing further complications. Book online or call one of our friendly reception staff on 07 5328 3588.

Jay Lewis Podiatrist - Elite Foot Care
Jarrod McGuinness Podiatrist - Elite Foot Care
Dean Taylor - Elite Foot Care
Daniel Neil - Elite Foot Care
Ajay Mahadev - Elite Foot Care Podiatrist
Josh Taylor - Elite Foot Care Podiatrist
Gabrielle Riach - Elite Foot Care

Our Therapists

Our team of Podiatrists have decades of experience treating all hip, knee, leg, ankle, foot and heel pain as well as a range of skin and nail conditions including ingrown toenails, fungal nail infections and more.

They share a passion for helping the community stay strong and active, helping them achieve their ultimate health outcomes. 

Their experience combined with the best treatment technologies available, allow us to achieve the best outcomes for our community.

Benefits of a personalised treatment plan

Reduced Pain

Using the worlds best treatment technology and methods, we can accelerate your recovery to achieve your ultimate health outcome sooner.

Increased Strength

With a prescribed exercise rehab program, your surrounding muscles will strengthen and take the load off your affected tissue. The result is lasting pain relief.

Become More Active

Working with your Podiatrist to complete your personalised treatment plan, you'll be able to do more of the things you love with friends and family.

How it works

1. Schedule an Appointment

Book online or call one of our friendly reception staff on 07 5328 3588 to find a time that suits you.

2. We Handle the Details

Our experienced Podiatrists will diagnose, create a custom treatment plan and treat in the very first session.

3. Be More Active With Less Pain

Spend more time with your family and friends being active and doing the things you love.

What you'll get...

Experienced Podiatrists

Our Podiatrists have decades of experience treating an array of conditions.

Comprehensive Consultations

Our Podiatrists will leave no stone unturned in finding the root cause of your issue.

Personalised Treatment Plans

Our Podiatrists will create a truly custom treatment plan to achieve your ideal outcomes.

Communication

Our Podiatrists will clearly explain your condition, providing insight into its nature and treatment options.

Best Treatment Technology

We utilise state-of-the-art treatment technologies including: Shockwave Therapy, 3D Laser Scanners, Lunula Fungal Nail Laser to provide our patients with the best possible care. 

On-site Manufacturing

Our on-site orthotics manufacturing lab allows us to do same or next day orthotic dispenses.

Begin your journey to a pain free future.

Woombye Podiatrists

4/40 Wilson Avenue, Woombye, 4559

Sippy Downs Podiatrists

15 Fairfax Street, Sippy Downs, 4556
(level 2 in Fairfax Village building)