Ankle pain can occur when the bones, ligaments, tendons, or joints in the ankle become injured or irritated. The ankle joint connects the leg to the foot. It forms where the shin bone, calf bone, and a bone in the foot meet and move together. This type of joint allows the foot to bend up and down when walking, running, or standing. Strong bands of tissue called ligaments help hold the bones together and keep the joint stable. Tendons, which connect muscles to bones, also help control movement. When these tissues are stretched, torn, inflamed, or damaged, ankle pain can develop. One of the most common causes is an ankle sprain, which happens when the ligaments stretch too far or tear. Other causes include broken bones, arthritis that causes joint pain and stiffness, and tendinitis, which is irritation of a tendon. A podiatrist can identify the cause of ankle pain and provide appropriate treatment. If you are experiencing ankle pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Pocono Foot & Ankle Consultants. our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendinitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Stroudsburg, Nazareth, and Easton, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
