From the Ground Up: Why Ankle Stability and Balance Matter More Than You Think

As summer rolls in, many of us find ourselves spending more time outside—whether it’s hiking in the mountains, playing with the kids in the backyard, or walking the seawall. But if your ankles aren’t holding strong, even the simplest movements can start to feel unsteady, uncomfortable, or risky.

That’s where ankle stability comes in—and it’s more important than most people realize.

👣 Your Ankles: The Unsung Heroes of Movement

Each ankle joint is made up of bones, ligaments, and muscles that allow for both mobility and stability. It’s a small area with a big job—helping your body respond to uneven ground, absorb impact, and keep you balanced through movement.

But here’s the thing: if the muscles around your ankle aren’t strong or coordinated, your body starts to compensate elsewhere—often in the knees, hips, or lower back. Over time, this can lead to pain, fatigue, or even injury.

🔁 What We Covered in the June Newsletter

This month, I shared a simple sequence you can try at home to check in with your ankle stability:

CONNECT – RELEASE – ACTIVATE

1. Connect with your foot tripod: big toe, pinky toe, heel

2. Release tight areas with a massage ball under the foot

3. Activate by holding a single-leg stance for 30+ seconds

These small steps go a long way toward building your awareness, strength, and balance from the ground up.

⚖️ Balance: Not Just for Athletes

While ankle stability is important for hiking, running, and sport—it’s just as critical for everyday function, especially as we get older.

As we age, our balance naturally declines. This increases the risk of falls and affects our confidence in movement. The good news? Balance is trainable. And strengthening the ankles is one of the most effective ways to improve it.

Regular single-leg balance work and foot strengthening not only protect against sprains and falls—they help you stay independent, mobile, and active longer.

🧠 Try This: Quick Balance Test

Can you stand on one foot for 30 seconds without wobbling?

• Try it barefoot, keeping your foot tripod grounded

• Want a challenge? Close your eyes or stand on a cushion

Struggle a bit? That’s your body asking for some love and attention. And we’re here to help.

🛠️ How Chiropractic Can Support Balance & Stability

At Tailored Health, I don’t just look at where you hurt—I look at how you move. Through a combination of:

• Manual adjustments

• Soft tissue release

• Rehab exercises

• And personalized movement strategies

…I help patients—from toddlers to active teens to aging adults—build a stronger foundation from the feet up.

Whether you’re recovering from an old ankle sprain, trying to stay strong for hiking season, or just want to move with more confidence, it starts at the base.

Ready to Feel More Grounded?

If your ankles feel weak, your balance feels off, or you’re curious about how your body is compensating—let’s assess it together. A quick check-up can help prevent bigger issues and keep you feeling strong, steady, and supported all summer long.