Don't Let an Ankle Injury Keep You on the Sidelines

That quick misstep on a trail or an awkward twist on the court can do more damage than you think. Ankle injuries are among the most common musculoskeletal problems — nearly 2 million ankle sprains are reported each year in the United States alone. If left untreated, even a mild sprain can lead to chronic ankle instability or long-term pain.

At Alpine Foot and Ankle, board-certified podiatric surgeon Andrew McCall, DPM, FACFAS, helps patients in Idaho Falls, Idaho, and Alpine, Wyoming, recover from ankle injuries and regain strength safely. 

Whether you’re an athlete eager to return to training or you just want to walk without pain, getting expert evaluation early is key to keeping your mobility intact.

Why ankle injuries matter

The ankle joint bears the full weight of your body with every step you take. It’s supported by a complex system of ligaments, tendons, and muscles that provide both stability and flexibility. 

When those structures are stretched or torn, or when the bones themselves are fractured, your balance and range of motion can quickly deteriorate. Even seemingly minor sprains can cause microscopic tears that weaken the ligaments. If these injuries don’t heal properly, you may experience recurring instability or stiffness down the road. 

Up to 40% of people who suffer a first-time ankle sprain go on to develop chronic instability. This makes proper evaluation and treatment crucial for getting back in the game safely as well as for long-term ankle health. Prompt diagnosis and the right recovery plan can make all the difference. 

Getting the right diagnosis from the start

At Alpine Foot and Ankle, your evaluation starts with a detailed physical exam and, if needed, diagnostic imaging to determine the severity of your injury. Dr. McCall uses in-office X-rays and other advanced imaging tools to identify ligament damage, bone fractures, or cartilage injuries. 

This helps our team create a treatment plan tailored to your specific condition, rather than relying on one-size-fits-all advice. 

For many ankle injuries, conservative care is the first line of treatment. We may recommend rest, bracing, compression, and targeted physical therapy to rebuild strength and stability. Supportive footwear and custom orthotics can also reduce stress on healing tissues and prevent future injuries.

When advanced treatment or surgery is needed

More severe sprains, ligament tears, or fractures may require a surgical procedure to restore full function. Dr. McCall specializes in advanced minimally invasive surgery, which allows him to repair damaged ligaments or stabilize the joint through tiny incisions. This approach reduces scarring, pain, and recovery time. 

These modern techniques help patients return to their favorite activities sooner with less downtime and a lower risk of complications. For athletes and active individuals, returning to play safely is just as important as returning quickly. 

Dr. McCall works closely with patients to design rehabilitation programs that balance recovery with performance goals, ensuring that strength, flexibility, and confidence are fully restored before you get back in motion.

Protecting your ankles moving forward

Once your ankle has healed, prevention is your best defense. Regular stretching, strength training, and supportive footwear go a long way in keeping your ankles stable. Dr. McCall also recommends sport-specific conditioning for athletes as well as balance exercises that improve joint awareness and reduce the risk of reinjury.

If ankle pain or instability is keeping you on the sidelines, expert care and guidance can get you back in the game. Schedule an appointment with our team at Alpine Foot and Ankle to get the personalized care you need to heal properly, prevent future injuries, and get back to pain-free movement.