Ankle Instability

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Ligament Injuries

Ankle injuries (upper ankle joint, lower ankle joint) following a twisting event (sprain) are common (sports) injuries. In the majority of accident events, the lateral ligament complex of the upper ankle joint is injured.

When is surgery needed?

Ligament injuries can predominantly be treated successfully with conservative methods. In cases of recurrent sprains, surgical intervention may be necessary.

What happens during surgery?

Ankle surgery involves the reconstruction of the medial and lateral ligaments. This procedure is performed under inpatient conditions.

Aftercare

Mobilisation begins on day 1 after the operation with the aid of physiotherapy and forearm crutches. The operated joint/leg must not be fully weight-bearing for 3 to 6 weeks. During this period, temporary partial weight-bearing with forearm crutches must be observed. Medicinal thrombosis prophylaxis is required for this duration. After inpatient discharge, physiotherapy should be continued, possibly in the form of inpatient or outpatient follow-up rehabilitation. As a rule, a rehabilitation period of 12 weeks can be expected after surgery to restore the ligaments. Patients must anticipate a period of incapacity for work lasting 3 months.