About Ankle Instability
Key Highlights
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Restores stability and normal joint mechanics to the ankle.Significantly reduces the risk of recurrent ankle sprains and giving-way episodes.Alleviates chronic pain and discomfort associated with instability.Can often be performed using minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques.Improves functional capacity for daily activities, work, and sports.Helps prevent long-term complications like early-onset arthritis./ul
Who is this surgery for?
- Chronic ankle instability persisting for over 6 months despite conservative therapy (physical therapy, bracing).
- Recurrent ankle sprains or a feeling of the ankle "giving way" during routine activities.
- Persistent pain, swelling, or tenderness on the outer side of the ankle.
- Diagnostic imaging (MRI) confirming significant ligament tear or laxity.
- Failed response to non-surgical treatments like rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE).
- Instability that limits athletic performance or daily functional tasks.
How to prepare
- Complete a thorough orthopedic evaluation, including physical exam and imaging (X-rays, MRI).
- Discuss medical history, allergies, and current medications (especially blood thinners) with the surgeon.
- Undergo pre-operative tests as required, such as blood work or an ECG.
- Follow specific instructions regarding fasting (no food or drink) for 8-12 hours before surgery.
- Arrange for transportation home and assistance during the initial recovery period.
- Prepare the home environment for easier mobility (e.g., clear walkways, secure rugs).
Risks & possible complications
- Infection at the surgical site.
- Bleeding, bruising, or hematoma formation.
- Damage to nearby nerves or blood vessels, potentially causing numbness or tingling.
- Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis).
- Anesthesia-related risks (allergic reaction, breathing problems).
- Stiffness, reduced range of motion, or persistent pain.
- Failure of the repair, leading to recurrent instability.
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), a chronic pain condition.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial period involves rest, elevation, and use of a cast, boot, or splint to immobilize the ankle.
- Strict non-weight-bearing for 2-6 weeks, using crutches, followed by gradual weight-bearing.
- Pain and swelling managed with prescribed medications and ice therapy.
- Incision care to keep the wound clean and dry, watching for signs of infection.
- Formal physical therapy begins after immobilization to restore strength, flexibility, and proprioception.
- Gradual return to normal activities over 3-6 months; full return to sports may take 6-9 months.
- Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing and progress.
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Typical hospital stay: 1-2 days
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Expected recovery time: 6-12 weeks for basic mobility, 6-9 months for full sports activity
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering ankle instability in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for ankle instability in India include Miot Hospital Chennai, Kamineni Hospital LB Nagar, Kamineni Hospital, King Koti, Kamineni Hospital, Tadigadapa, Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform ankle instability. MediFyr helps you compare orthopedists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for ankle instability compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | INR 80 Thousand – 250 Thousand | 1-2 days | ~ 6-12 weeks for basic mobility, 6-9 months for full sports activity | Know More |
| Turkey | TRY 280 Thousand – 875 Thousand | 1-2 days | ~ 6-12 weeks for basic mobility, 6-9 months for full sports activity | Know More |
Top hospitals for Ankle Instability in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated orthopedics teams and experience managing patients undergoing ankle instability.
Diya Iyer, a 28-year-old software engineer...
Diya Iyer, a 28-year-old software engineer and avid weekend hiker, first sprained her right ankle two years ago on a trail. Since then, it has given way multiple times during simple activities like walking on uneven pavement or wearing certain shoes. The constant fear of re-injury has made her anxious and she has stopped hiking altogether. Her orthopedic surgeon, after a physical exam and stress X-rays, diagnosed her with chronic lateral ankle instability. He recommended an ankle stabilization procedure called a modified Broström-Gould repair to tighten and reconstruct the torn ligaments. Diya was nervous about surgery but agreed, desperate to regain stability. The arthroscopic-assisted procedure went smoothly. Post-op, she was in a boot for six weeks, followed by rigorous physical therapy. A year later, her ankle is strong and stable. She has returned to hiking with confidence. Emotionally, she transitioned from feeling fragile and fearful to feeling empowered and secure in her own body.
Orthopedists for Ankle Instability
Explore experienced orthopedists who regularly perform ankle instability and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 48 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 25 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 15 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 11 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 14 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 9 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 15 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 20 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 19 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 18 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 15 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 9 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 30 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 28 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 26 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 21 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 21 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 14 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 13 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 11 Years Experience
- Orthopedist
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore