Ankle Sprains & Instability

Ankle Sprains and Ankle Instability

Ankle Sprain and Instability Treatment in Fort Worth & Burleson, TX

Ankle sprains are one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries. While many heal with proper treatment, some patients develop chronic ankle instability that can lead to ongoing pain, weakness, and repeated injuries.

Dr. Dalton Ryba, DPM is a dual board-certified podiatrist and foot & ankle surgeon providing comprehensive treatment for ankle sprains and instability in Fort Worth and Burleson, Texas. Treatment focuses on restoring stability, preventing recurrence, and returning patients to activity safely.

What are Ankle Sprains and What is Instability?

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn, most commonly on the outside of the ankle.

The most frequently injured ligament is the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL), but multiple ligaments and tendons can contribute and/or be affected.

Injuries can range from:

Mild stretching of the ligament
Partial tear
Complete rupture

If not properly treated, ligament healing may be incomplete, leading to long-term instability.

What Are The Common Symptoms?

Pain on the outside of the ankle
Swelling and bruising
Difficulty bearing weight
Tenderness to touch
Feeling of the ankle “giving out”
Recurrent sprains are a sign of underlying instability.

What Are The Causes And Risk Factors?

Ankle sprains typically occur from:

Rolling or twisting the ankle
Sports injuries
Uneven surfaces
Prior ankle injuries

Risk increases with:

Weak supporting muscles
Poor proprioception (balance control)
Incomplete rehabilitation after a previous sprain

What Are The Treatment Options?

Most ankle sprains can be treated without surgery.

Immobilization (brace or boot)
Rest, ice, and elevation
Physical therapy
Strengthening and balance training
Activity modification

Proper rehabilitation is critical to prevent recurrence.

Surgery may be recommended for:

Chronic ankle instability
Repeated sprains
Failure of conservative treatment

Common procedures include:

Ligament repair (Broström procedure)
Ligament reconstruction in more severe cases
Foot deformity reconstruction is contributory

Surgical treatment restores mechanical stability and reduces the risk of future injury.

What Is The Recovery Timeline?

Recovery depends on severity:

Mild sprains: 2–4 weeks
Moderate sprains: 4–8 weeks
Severe injuries: longer recovery

After surgery:

Immobilization period
Gradual return to weight-bearing
Physical therapy

Full recovery may take several months.

When To See A Specialist?

Pain lasting more than a few weeks
Recurrent ankle sprains
Feeling of instability, weakness or giving out
Painful clicking or popping
Difficulty returning to activity
Early treatment can prevent long-term instability and joint damage.

Dr. Ryba sees patients in Fort Worth and Burleson, TX through
Lonestar Orthopaedic and Spine Specialists, PLLC.

When scheduling, please request an appointment specifically with Dr. Dalton Ryba, DPM.