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InternalBrace for Chronic Ankle Instability: A Modern Solution for Long-Term Stability
Understanding Chronic Ankle Instability
Chronic ankle instability occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle become overstretched or torn, leading to an unstable joint. This condition is often caused by:
- Repeated Ankle Sprains 鈥� Previous injuries weaken the ligaments over time.
- Ligament Laxity 鈥� Some individuals naturally have looser ligaments, making them more prone to instability.
- Insufficient Rehabilitation 鈥� Incomplete healing after an injury can lead to long-term instability.
- Weak Muscles and Poor Balance 鈥� Lack of strength and coordination increases the risk of further sprains.
Common symptoms include frequent ankle rolling, persistent swelling, pain, and difficulty walking on uneven surfaces.
What Is the InternalBrace Procedure?
Benefits of InternalBrace for Chronic Ankle Instability
Patients who undergo the InternalBrace procedure experience several advantages, including:
- Enhanced Ankle Stability 鈥� Reinforces the weakened ligaments, reducing the risk of future sprains.
- Minimally Invasive Approach 鈥� Smaller incisions result in less tissue damage and a quicker recovery.
- Faster Return to Activity 鈥� Many patients resume daily activities and sports faster than with traditional surgery.
- Long-Lasting Results 鈥� Provides durable support without compromising natural ankle motion.
- Reduced Risk of Re-Injury 鈥� Strengthens the ankle, making it more resilient to further sprains.
The InternalBrace Procedure: What to Expect
The InternalBrace surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local or general anesthesia. Here鈥檚 what to expect:
- Small Incisions 鈥� The surgeon makes tiny incisions to access the damaged ligaments.
- Suture Tape Placement 鈥� High-strength suture tape is anchored to the bone to reinforce the ligaments.
- Ligament Repair 鈥� If necessary, the damaged ligament is repaired before securing the InternalBrace.
- Closure and Recovery 鈥� The incisions are closed, and a protective boot or brace is applied.
The entire procedure typically takes less than an hour, and most patients go home the same day.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery from InternalBrace surgery is faster than traditional ligament repair, but proper rehabilitation is essential. The general recovery timeline includes:
- First Two Weeks: Limited weight-bearing with crutches, wearing a protective boot.
- Weeks 3-6: Gradual weight-bearing with physical therapy to restore strength and range of motion.
- Weeks 6-12: Progressive return to normal activities, including low-impact exercises.
- After 3 Months: Most patients can resume full activity, including sports.
Following your podiatrist鈥檚 rehabilitation plan ensures the best outcome and long-term ankle stability.
Who Is a Candidate for InternalBrace?
You may be a good candidate for InternalBrace if you:
- Experience frequent ankle sprains or instability.
- Have tried conservative treatments (bracing, physical therapy) without success.
- Want a minimally invasive procedure with a faster recovery time.
- Participate in sports or physical activities that require strong ankle stability.
A consultation with a podiatrist can help determine if InternalBrace is the right treatment for you.
Why Choose University Foot & Ankle Institute?
Chronic ankle instability can significantly impact your mobility and quality of life. The InternalBrace procedure offers a modern, effective solution to reinforce your ankle鈥檚 stability and prevent further injuries. If you’re struggling with ankle instability, consult one of our podiatrists to see if InternalBrace surgery is the right option for you.
At University Foot & Ankle Institute, our board-certified podiatrists offer expert care for conditions like chronic ankle instability. We provide advanced treatment options, from conservative care to surgical solutions, ensuring personalized care for every patient.
Dr. Bob Baravarian DPM, FACFAS is a Board-Certified Podiatric Foot and Ankle Specialist. He is an assistant clinical professor at the UCLA School of Medicine and serves as Director of University Foot and Ankle Institute.
Dr. Baravarian has been involved in athletics his entire life and played competitive tennis in high school and college. He has an interest in sports medicine, arthritis therapy, and trauma/reconstructive surgery of the foot and ankle. He is also fluent in five languages (English, French, Spanish, Farsi, and Hebrew),
