Ankle Pain Specialist

What causes ankle pain?

The ankle is a joint that connects the foot to the lower leg. Various ligaments, tendons, and muscles support and stabilize the joint to hold it in place. Damage to any of these components can cause ankle pain. Common causes of ankle pain include:

Arthritis

Arthritis is a form of joint inflammation that can affect the ankle. The most common type, osteoarthritis, causes the flexible cartilage around the joint to break down. Rheumatoid arthritis, the second most common type, affects the lining inside the joint. 

Arthritis can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion in the ankle joint.

Sprained ankle

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments supporting the joint overstretch. Ankle sprains can be mild and cause mild swelling and discomfort. They also can be severe and tear the ligaments completely. An untreated ankle sprain raises your risk of repeated sprains and ankle instability.

Fractures

An ankle fracture is a break that typically affects the bony bump on the outside of your ankle. These fractures may be mild enough that you can still walk or too severe to bear weight.

Tendinitis

Ankle tendinitis occurs when the tendons that support your foot and ankle become inflamed. Tendons, which connect muscle to bone, can eventually rupture without proper treatment.

Bursitis

The bursae are fluid-filled sacs that cushion connecting bones. When a bursa becomes inflamed, it can cause pain, stiffness, and diminished range of motion in the affected joint.

How is ankle pain diagnosed?

A comprehensive foot and ankle evaluation is necessary to diagnose ankle pain. Your podiatrist at Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists may examine your feet and ankles, your gait, and the way you walk. 

For an accurate diagnosis, they also might order imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRI scans, CT scans, and ultrasounds.

What are the treatments for ankle pain?

Once your podiatrist pinpoints the source of your ankle pain, they can determine the appropriate treatment. Common treatments for ankle pain include:

• Rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE protocol)
• Immobilization (e.g., casting, bracing, and bandaging)
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Steroid injections
• Custom-made orthotic shoe inserts
• Shoe modifications

If necessary, your podiatrist can perform arthroscopic surgery through keyhole-sized incisions to treat your pain without damaging surrounding tissues. 

Call Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.