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Lateral Ankle Stabilization

Lateral ankle stabilization (Broström/Broström-Gould repair) restores stability by repairing and tightening the ligaments on the outside of the ankle. Performed by fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Jordan Crafton, this procedure addresses chronic ankle instability before it leads to cartilage damage, bone spurs, or progressive arthritis. Early diagnosis and treatment protect long-term function and help patients return to an active lifestyle.

Overview of Chronic Ankle Instability

Chronic ankle sprains are more than “just a sprain.” When pain, swelling, or a sense of the ankle “giving way” lasts longer than two to three months, the ligaments on the outside of the ankle are often overstretched or torn. This condition is known as chronic lateral ankle instability.

If left untreated, chronic instability can lead to:

Recurrent sprains
Cartilage damage inside the ankle
Loose bodies or small cartilage fragments
Bone spurs
Progressive ankle arthritis

Why Early Treatment Matters

Over time, these problems can become significant enough to require major surgeries such as total ankle replacement — a procedure far more involved and higher risk than stabilizing the ankle early.

A chronically unstable ankle continues to injure itself with every twist or misstep. Repeated micro-trauma worsens cartilage damage, increases scar tissue, and accelerates joint deterioration.

Repairing the ankle before arthritis sets in protects long-term function and helps patients maintain an active lifestyle.

What Is Lateral Ankle Stabilization?

Lateral ankle stabilization (often called a Broström or Broström-Gould repair) restores stability by repairing and tightening the ligaments on the outside of the ankle.

Dr. Crafton performs a precise anatomical repair, often enhanced with an internal brace, a strong suture-tape construct that:

Immediately reinforces the repaired ligaments
Protects the ankle as the ligaments heal
Reduces the risk of future sprains
Allows a more confident return to activity

Imaging and Evaluation Before Surgery

To fully understand the source of your instability and pain, Dr. Crafton performs advanced imaging consisting of:

X-rays – always obtained to evaluate bone structure and joint alignment.
MRI – crucial for detecting ligament tears, cartilage defects, tendon injuries, and inflammation.
CT scan – used when detailed bone anatomy or surgical planning requires more precision.

Arthroscopy Performed with Every Stabilization

What is ankle arthroscopy?

Ankle arthroscopy involves placing a small camera inside the ankle joint through tiny incisions. Dr. Crafton uses this minimally invasive technique to:

Clean out scar tissue
Identify and repair cartilage damage
Treat ligament injuries that may not appear clearly on MRI
Address loose cartilage fragments or defects
Ensure no hidden injuries are missed during stabilization

Arthroscopy greatly enhances the accuracy and completeness of the procedure.

This approach gives patients the best long-term outcome and reduces the chances of developing arthritis later.

Recovery Timeline

0–2 Weeks

Non-weightbearing in a splint or cast
Elevation and swelling control

2–6 Weeks

Transition to a walking boot
Physical therapy begins at 2 weeks
Progressive weightbearing in the boot

6–10 Weeks

Strength, balance, and gait training
Gradual transition out of the boot

10–12 Weeks

Return to full activity or sports as strength and stability allow

Risks of Untreated Instability

If chronic instability is not addressed, it can lead to:

Ongoing pain
Recurrent sprains
Cartilage loss
Bone spurs
Early ankle arthritis
Increased likelihood of needing total ankle replacement later in life — this is a major surgery that is more risky.

Dr. Crafton’s Surgical Approach

A Combination of Advanced Imaging, Precise Surgical Techniques, and Consistent Attentive Care:

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Expert Personalized Evaluation

Every patient undergoes a tailored assessment to identify all causes of instability and pain.

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Precise Surgical Technique

The Broström or Broström-Gould procedure is performed with meticulous restoration of normal ligament anatomy.

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Advanced Implant Technology

An internal brace is used when appropriate to strengthen the repair and support long-term success.

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Consistent Attentive Care

Rehabilitation and follow-up are customized to each patient to ensure a safe and successful return to activity.

Dr. Crafton’s Goal is Simple:

“

To restore stability, eliminate pain, and help you return to the lifestyle and activities you enjoy.

Schedule a Consultation

If chronic ankle pain is aﬀecting your mobility or quality of life, you may be a candidate for Total Ankle Replacement.
Contact our oﬃce today to schedule a personalized evaluation and explore your options for long-lasting relief.

FAQ's

What is lateral ankle stabilization?

Lateral ankle stabilization (often called a Broström or Broström-Gould repair) is a surgical procedure that restores stability by repairing and tightening the ligaments on the outside of the ankle. Dr. Crafton performs a precise anatomical repair, often enhanced with an internal brace — a strong suture-tape construct that immediately reinforces the repaired ligaments and protects the ankle as it heals.

What is ankle arthroscopy?

Ankle arthroscopy involves placing a small camera inside the ankle joint through tiny incisions. This minimally invasive technique allows Dr. Crafton to clean out scar tissue, identify and repair cartilage damage, treat ligament injuries that may not appear clearly on MRI, and address loose cartilage fragments or defects. Arthroscopy is performed with every stabilization to ensure no hidden injuries are missed.

What are the risks of untreated ankle instability?

If chronic instability is not addressed, it can lead to ongoing pain, recurrent sprains, cartilage loss, bone spurs, early ankle arthritis, and an increased likelihood of needing total ankle replacement later in life — a major surgery that is more involved and higher risk than stabilizing the ankle early.

Is your ankle still hurting after a sprain?

If your ankle pain persists for two to three months after a sprain, it is likely not “just a sprain.” Chronic instability, cartilage damage, tendon tears, and other ligament injuries may be present — and early diagnosis leads to better outcomes. Contact us to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Crafton.

How long is recovery after lateral ankle stabilization?

Recovery typically spans 10–12 weeks. The first 0–2 weeks involve non-weightbearing in a splint or cast. At 2–6 weeks, patients transition to a walking boot and begin physical therapy. Strength, balance, and gait training occur at 6–10 weeks, with return to full activity or sports as strength and stability allow at 10–12 weeks.