Whether you are a weekend warrior, an athlete, or someone who enjoys a walk, your ankles are vital. When they hurt, it can be frustrating and debilitating. You might wonder why your ankle hurts, especially if there is no obvious injury.
Let us explore the common causes of ankle pain. We will also help you determine when it is time to see an ankle specialist.
Common Causes of Ankle Pain
Many factors can contribute to ankle pain.
Sprains and Strains
Sprains and strains are the most frequent causes of ankle pain. A sprain happens when the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched or torn. This often happens during activities that involve sudden stops or twists.
Conversely, strains affect muscles or tendons. They can result from overuse or improper use during physical activity.
Both sprains and strains can cause swelling, bruising, and instability. Rest and rehabilitation can help, but severe cases may require medical intervention.
Arthritis
Ankle pain can also be the result of arthritis.
Osteoarthritis, a degenerative condition, gradually arises from aging or past injuries. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder, can also target the ankle joints, causing pain and stiffness.
Managing arthritis involves medication, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery.
Tendinitis
Tendinitis is the inflammation of the tendons connecting muscles to bones, often due to repetitive stress. In the ankle, it typically affects the Achilles tendon.
Activities such as running, jumping, or even walking can lead to tendinitis. Symptoms include pain and swelling near the tendon, especially after physical activity.
Rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications can alleviate symptoms. However, persistent cases require professional care.
When to See a Specialist
It is important to know when you should visit a doctor who specializes in ankle problems.
Seeing a specialist at the right time can make a big difference in how well and how quickly you recover.
Persistent or Severe Pain
Does your ankle hurt for a long time and does not get better with rest or simple home treatments like icing? It is a sign you need to see a specialist.
Pain that is so strong it stops you from walking or putting weight on your ankle is particularly concerning.
Specialists can figure out what is causing your pain and create a treatment plan just for you. Ignoring such pain can lead to more serious problems, like chronic pain or long-term damage.
Swelling and Bruising
Swelling or bruising that does not go away over time is another reason to consult a specialist.
Significant swelling might indicate issues like a broken bone or a severe sprain. Both instances need medical attention.
Specialists can perform imaging tests, like X-rays, to find out what is wrong. Then, they will suggest treatments to prevent further injury.
Unaddressed swelling and bruising may result in more serious complications. These will likely hinder your ability to move properly.
Limited Range of Motion
If you find it hard to move your ankle as freely as you used to, this is known as a limited range of motion.
This issue can arise from joint problems or damage to soft tissues like ligaments or tendons.
Specialists can examine your ankle to understand what is causing this restriction. They might recommend some exercises, physical therapy, or even surgery to help you regain full movement.
Failing to address this can lead to stiffness and decreased mobility over time.
Best Treatments for Ankle Pain
Taking care of ankle pain early on can make a big difference in how quickly you heal and how well you recover.
Here are some of the most common and effective treatments for managing ankle pain.
Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE)
Firstly, rest and give your ankle a break. Avoid activities that put stress on it, like running or jumping. Rest helps prevent further injury and gives your body time to heal.
Also, apply ice packs to the painful area for 15-20 minutes every few hours. Applying ice alleviates swelling and numbs pain.
Next, use an elastic bandage or wrap to lightly compress the ankle. This aids in managing swelling while offering support.
Lastly, keep your ankle raised above the level of your heart whenever possible. This reduces swelling by allowing fluids to drain away from the area.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can alleviate pain and decrease inflammation. Always follow the directions on the package and consult your provider if you are unsure about these medicines.
Physical Therapy
A physical therapist can guide you through exercises to strengthen your ankle and improve its flexibility. This is especially helpful after the initial pain and swelling have decreased.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be necessary. This is more so the case if there are severe injuries like fractures or torn ligaments that do not heal on their own.
A specialist can evaluate your condition and determine if surgery is the best option for your case.
Ankle Pain Treatment in Warwick & Middletown, RI, and Dartmouth, MA
The board-certified podiatrists at the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England perform ankle arthroscopy to diagnose and treat many podiatry conditions. We are highly skilled in producing successful surgical outcomes and assisting patients with their recovery.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, call the office location nearest you or use our secure appointment request form.
We look forward to serving you!
