Ankle Instability in Athletes — Newer Techniques & the Arthroscopic Approach

Overview

In February 2026, Dr. Mark Maritz was invited as Guest Speaker at the Life Through Movement Regional Conference (LTMRC) — hosted by the Biokinetics Association of South Africa (BioKinetics SA).

The conference brings together biokinetists, sport scientists, physiotherapists, and allied health professionals from across the Western Cape to engage with leading clinicians on topics at the intersection of movement, rehabilitation, and surgical care. Dr. Maritz was specifically invited to address one of the most prevalent and often under-managed injuries encountered in active populations: ankle instability in athletes.

His presentation focused on the evolving landscape of ankle instability management — moving beyond conventional open repair to explore newer arthroscopic and minimally invasive techniques that allow for more precise anatomical restoration with reduced surgical morbidity and faster return to sport. Drawing on his extensive experience in foot and ankle surgery and international exposure to global faculty including Dr. Jordi Vega and Miki Dalmau, Dr. Maritz outlined the current evidence base, patient selection criteria, and the practical case for arthroscopy as the preferred approach in the athletic patient. The talk was well received by an engaged audience of movement professionals — underscoring the value of surgeon-allied health collaboration in optimising outcomes for athletes.

“Ankle instability is far more than a sprain that didn’t heal — understanding the anatomy and choosing the right technique at the right time can be the difference between an athlete returning to peak performance or facing a career defined by recurrence.”