Ankles are far more important to your health than you may think. That’s why podiatrists urge their patients to partake in certain exercises that build ankle strength to prevent injuries from occurring. The following are just a few ankle exercises to strengthen your ankles that will have you jumping for joy.

Improve the Strength of Your Ankles With These 3 Exercises

1. Ankle Rolls

Ankle rolls are great for boosting stability, which can be an issue after an injury. Start by extending your leg while sitting on a chair. In this position, rotate your foot clockwise with 10 to 20 repetitions. Repeat with a counterclockwise motion, and then perform the full set on the opposite leg. If you’re concerned about your range of motion, add in some other movements, such as moving the restricted ankle up and down and side to side.

2. Lunges

Lunge exercises help fortify ankles while also improving balance. Lunges are relatively simple; take one step forward, bending the front knee 90 degrees. Simultaneously, let your back knee sink to the ground, and hold the position before lunging forward with the opposite leg. Lunges are ideal to increase strength in the lower extremities, particularly within the ankles and knees. If you have concerns about putting strain on your body, be sure to ask a podiatrist before starting an exercise regimen.

3. Stretch Your Achilles

As you age, your ankles can weaken and become inflexible. Achilles stretches are great for combating stiffness and preventing injuries. While standing, take one leg and extend it backward. At the same time, push your hips forward and bend your front knee, holding the position for 15 to 30 seconds. You can perform up to four sets on each leg, depending on your ability.

Whether your ankle weakness is linked to age, an injury, or a health condition, Deer Creek Foot Care is here to help. Podiatrist Dr. Warren Tampe and the rest of his team treat a wide range of foot disorders at their O' Fallon, MO, clinic. This includes sports injuries, heel pain, bunions, callouses, arch issues, and plantar fasciitis, along with many other conditions. They also provide custom-designed orthotics, which provide increased flexibility and comfort. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, feel free to call (636) 240-1127. You can also learn more about their services by checking out their website.