Brostrom Procedure

The Brostrom procedure is used to treat ankle instability, more specifically the ligaments on the lateral portion of the ankle. The procedure is typically performed on patients that have instability and place higher demand on the ankles (i.e. athletes). The anterior talofibular ligament, and the calcaneofibular ligament are the primary ligaments addressed with this procedure, and are either reattached if torn, or shortened if chronically lengthened. The procedure is followed by a period of immobilization and non-weight bearing to allow the tendons to heal. 

Once your surgeon has released you to physical therapy, the early phases start by regaining normal range of motion, and activation of the muscles that support the ankle/foot.  When it is appropriate, we initiate weight bearing progression and transition to closed-kinetic chain exercises, including balance exercises.  Once we feel the ankle is stable, and proprioception(balance) has improved, we initiate dynamic activities like cutting and landing. We then transition our patients back to their respective activities when they have met their goals.

Associated Symptoms:

  • Ankle/foot pain
  • Swelling
  • Decreased range of motion
  • Stiffness
  • Difficulty walking
  • Impaired balance

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