Ankle instability

Hello,  I sprained my right ankle at age 24 with an outward roll.  Swelling, pain, bruising.  Packed in cold pack elevated and rested. Now age 43 only this year experiencing ankle stiffness when sitting, pain on outer bone when mowing, kneeling down.  Feeling of being able to snap something back in which stops the pain.  Foot has always felt a bit loose if I am wearing heavy shoes.  Is this likely caused by the old sprain. What are the thresholds for surgery and is early mobility/driving etc possible after surgery.  Thankyou.

[Michael L Gross, MD]

I doubt the sprain from 20 years ago is an important factor at this point.  You didnt mention anything about your activity level, weight, and general health, which are all much more important at this point.  Either way, surgery seems a bit drastic an approach before you even have a diagnosis.  I suggest you see a foot and ankle specialist for a thorough evaluation.