While the symptoms of a simple sprain may resolve quickly, underlying instability may persist for years. Lack-of-pain is NOT an indicator of optimal function. In fact, research has shown that the leading risk for ankle sprains is having a previous ankle sprain. And those sprains can ultimately lead to a condition called chronic ankle instability (CAI).
Chronic ankle instability is characterized by a recurring giving way of the outer (lateral) side of the ankle. Usually, the giving way occurs while walking or doing other activities, but it can also happen when you’re just standing. Proper rehabilitation after any ankle injury is vital in order to return to athletic activities.
The Achilles tendon is a tough band of tissue that runs along the back of the ankle. It connects the calf muscle to the heel bone and allows us to run, jump, or stand on our toes. Injury to the Achilles (aka tendinopathy) can happen slowly and silently as a result of overtraining. If you have pain in the back of your ankle (posterior) especially after running, it could be a sign of tendinopathy or runner’s ankle.