YOUR BOARD CERTIFIED PODIATRIC SURGEON SINCE 1982
IN CULVER CITY, WEST LOS ANGELES
Chronic ankle instability is a condition characterized by a recurring “giving way” of the outer (lateral) side of the ankle. This condition often develops after repeated ankle sprains.
Usually the “giving way” occurs while walking or doing other activities, but it can also happen when you’re just standing. Many athletes, as well as others, suffer from chronic ankle instability. People with chronic ankle instability often complain of:
Pain or tenderness
A repeated turning of the ankle, especially on uneven surfaces or when participating in sports
The ankle feeling wobbly or unstable
Persistent (chronic) discomfort and swelling
Incomplete healing after an ankle injury may result in continued deterioration of the ligaments and a cycle of chronic instability and recurring ankle sprains.
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.
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.”
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.
When is Surgery Needed?
In some cases, the foot and ankle surgeon will recommend surgery based on the degree of instability or lack of response to non-surgical approaches.
Surgery usually involves repair or reconstruction of the damaged ligament(s). The surgeon will select the surgical procedure best suited for your case based on the severity of the instability and your activity level.
The length of the recovery period will vary, depending on the procedure or procedures performed.
WHAT CLIENTS SAY ABOUT FOOT CARE WLA
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!"
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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."
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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."
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We look forward to meeting your foot and ankle needs
Our Los Angeles Foot Doctor is Certified by the The American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery, is a California Licensed Podiatrist and has a Doctorate Degree in Podiatric Medicine.
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT
CONTACT US DAILY
310-876-1579
Dr. J. Leonard Knudson is a Foot and Ankle Surgeon located in Culver City and near West Los Angeles. We also tend to patients from nearby - UCLA, Brentwood, Beverly Hills, Marina Del Rey, Venice, Santa Monica and the West Los Angeles area.
Hours of Operation
Mon-Fri 9:00am-5:00pm