9808 VENICE BLVD, STE 600
CULVER CITY, CA 90232
9808 VENICE BLVD, STE 600
CULVER CITY, CA 90232
CHRONIC ANKLE INSTABILITY
WHAT IS CHRONIC ANKLE INSTABILITY
Weak and unstable ankles are subject to suddenly rolling, causing the band of lateral ligaments that stabilizes the outside of your ankle to stretch or even tear. Incomplete healing after an ankle injury may result in continued deterioration of the ligaments and a cycle of chronic instability and recurring ankle sprains.
HOW IS CHRONIC ANKLE INSTABILITY DIAGNOSED?
If you suspect you may have chronic ankle instability, schedule an appointment with a foot and ankle specialist for further evaluation. A standard exam consists of:
HISTORY
Dr. Leonard Knudson of Associated Foot Care Clinic, Inc. will ask questions to determine whether you have the common signs and symptoms of chronic ankle instability, including repeated ankle sprains, pain, and fear of your ankle “giving way.”
PHYSICAL EXAM
A detailed physical exam and series of tests will be performed to check for ligamentous laxity or “overstretching” of your ankle ligaments, as well as muscle strength and ankle motion.
BALANCE TEST
You may be asked to stand on one foot with open eyes and then again with closed eyes to determine whether your ankle instability affects your proprioception or “sense of balance.”
THE CYCLE OF CHRONIC ANKLE INSTABILITY
1. The initial inversion injury occurs: your foot suddenly rolls inwardly and your weight shifts onto the outside edge of your ankle
2. The forced rotation of your ankle joint causes the supporting ligaments to stretch or tear
3. Stretched and torn ligaments are weaker and may not heal properly
4. Unable to play their role supporting the ankle joint, your ligaments give way easily, resulting in more sprains
5. The result is chronic ankle instability and an unending cycle of ankle sprains
6. Over time, and without treatment, repeated injury to the ankle ligaments can lead to degenerative changes and possibly osteoarthritis.
PROGRESSION OF INSTABILITY, PAIN, AND ARTHRITIS
NORMAL ANKLE
Preinjured, healthy ligament
SPRAINED ANKLE
Ankle roll stretches and tears ligament.
UNSTABLE ANKLE AFTER TREATMENT
Ligament may heal in a weakened, stretched state that is prone to more sprains.
ARTHRITIS, UNSTABLE
Ankle becomes increasingly unstable over time, leading to joint pain and possible arthritis.
We offer Quality and Gentle Care.
Our patients are comprised of men and women of all ages - from children, teenagers, adults, and elderly.
WHAT CLIENTS SAY ABOUT FOOT CARE WLA
THE BEST IN THE
LOS ANGELES AREA
"I had some surgery for a minor skin cancer on my ankle which became infected and created a wound that would not heal. After a month of trying, the surgeon sent me to Dr. J. Knudson. He has many years of experience with stubborn cases. Gradually he used various forms of treatment until I was finally cured. How fortunate I was to have found him. I am now back to my previous activity and health. They deserve more than 5 stars."
THE BEST DOCTOR IN
CULVER CITY!
"I visited Associated Foot Care, Dr. Leonard Knudson for consultation on my right foot that needed surgery and Dr Knudson is actually the second Dr. I am visiting regarding my foot problem since the first foot Dr. I went to was like the waiting game type. Dr. Knudson x-rayed my foot right away and next thing you know, I had my schedule for my foot surgery! Everything went smooth, didn't feel pain at all. I fully recommend him."
KNOWLEDGEABLE AND TRUSTWORTHY FOOT DOCTOR
"My best friend recommended I see Dr. Knudson so I made an appointment and saw him. He is very knowledgeable and took the time to explain what was going on with my feet and how my bone structure was affected by the shoes I was wearing. He took x-rays to determine the condition of my feet before making any suggestions for treatment. I became his client since my consultation and will be seeing him twice a week! I will definitely be recommending him to my friends and family!"
Everything you need to take care of your Foot, our Foot Doctor in Culver City, West Los Angeles can provide.
We look forward to meeting your foot and ankle needs.
Our Los Angeles Foot Doctor is Certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery, is a California Licensed Podiatrist and has a Doctorate Degree in Podiatric Medicine.
