Have you ever twisted your ankle, felt the sharp pain, rested a few days — only to have it happen again the next time you jog, play a sport, or even step on uneven ground? If so, you’re not alone. Recurrent ankle sprains are one of the most common sports and lifestyle injuries we see, and they’re not something you should ignore. Every repeat sprain weakens your joint, stretches ligaments further, and puts you at risk of long-term ankle instability.
Why Do Ankle Sprains Keep Coming Back?
The ankle is supported by strong ligaments that hold the bones in place. A sudden twist or awkward landing stretches these ligaments, leading to a sprain. With proper rest, ice, and rehab, a mild sprain can heal. But here’s the problem: many people return to activity too quickly or skip physiotherapy. The result? Ligaments that don’t fully recover, muscles that remain weak, and balance that stays off. This sets the stage for another sprain — and the cycle continues. Signs that your ankle isn’t healing properly include:- Your ankle “gives way” often.
- You feel unstable when walking on uneven ground.
- Swelling and pain return every time you try to be active.
- Simple movements, like climbing stairs or standing for long, cause discomfort.
What Happens if You Ignore Repeated Sprains?
Many people think an ankle sprain is a “minor injury.” But untreated or recurring sprains can lead to:- Chronic ankle instability – the ankle keeps twisting even during simple activities.
- Cartilage damage – repeated sprains can injure the smooth cartilage in your ankle joint, causing early arthritis.
- Weak balance and reduced sports performance – athletes often find it hard to regain their speed and agility.
- Persistent swelling and stiffness – leading to discomfort in daily life.
Expert Care at Swastik Bone & Joint Clinic
At Swastik Bone & Joint Clinic, patients receive advanced and personalized care for ankle injuries. The clinic is led by Dr. Nikheel Pansare, an internationally trained orthopedic surgeon with fellowships in joint replacement and sports surgery from France and Germany. Known for his expertise in arthroscopy, sports injury management, and robotic joint replacement, Dr. Pansare brings global standards of care to Pune. The clinic offers everything under one roof: digital X-ray, physiotherapy, and advanced surgical solutions. For ankle sprains that keep coming back, Swastik Clinic specializes in diagnostic and surgical care for ankle instability and cartilage injuries, providing precise, camera-guided treatment for long-lasting relief.Treatment Options: From Rehab to Advanced Surgery
Not every patient needs surgery. In fact, many benefit from a structured physiotherapy program that focuses on:- Strengthening the supporting muscles around the ankle.
- Improving stability with balance and proprioception training.
- Gradual, safe recovery that reduces the risk of future sprains.
Practical Tips to Prevent Recurring Ankle Sprains
Even with expert care, prevention plays a big role. Here are some steps to protect your ankle:- Warm up before sports or workouts.
- Wear supportive footwear for running or training.
- Strengthen calf and ankle muscles with regular exercises.
- Use ankle braces or taping during high-risk activities.
- Don’t rush your return to sports after an injury — give your ligaments time to heal fully.