Published on: 4/24/2025
What might cause uneven ankles and how can it be corrected?
Uneven ankles can be caused by ankle instability, which may result from injuries or weak ligaments. Treatment can include exercises or surgery to stabilize the ankle.
Explanation
Uneven ankles, where one ankle appears different from the other, can often be due to instability. Ankle instability happens when the ligaments that support the ankle are weak or have been injured. This can make the ankle move more than it should, leading to unevenness.
Causes:
- Injury: Past injuries, like sprains, can weaken the ligaments in the ankle.
- Weak Ligaments: Some people naturally have weaker ligaments, making their ankles less stable.
Treatment Options:
- Exercises: Special exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the ankle, improving stability.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery might be needed to fix the ligaments and make the ankle stable again.
It's important to talk to a doctor about the best treatment. They can help decide if exercises are enough or if surgery might be needed. Always seek professional advice for personal health concerns.
(References)
- Colville MR. (1998). Surgical treatment of the unstable ankle. The Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 9826420.
- Hintermann B. (2003). Medial ankle instability. Foot and ankle clinics, 14719838.
- Löfvenberg R, Kärrholm J, & Sundelin G. (1996). [Proprioceptive reaction in the healthy and chronically .... Sportverletzung Sportschaden : Organ der Gesellschaft fur Orthopadisch-Traumatologische Sportmedizin, 9092124.
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