Why Is My Ankle Aching?

Ankle pain can have many possible causes. Ankle sprains, which occur when a ligament in the ankle is overstretched or torn, are one of the most common ankle injuries. An ankle sprain can happen while playing sports, exercising, or even just twisting the ankle when stepping off of a curb. Another potential cause of ankle pain is tendonitis. The ankle contains three tendons: the Achilles tendon, the peroneal tendon, and the posterior tibial tendon. When one of these tendons becomes inflamed, it results in pain, swelling, and tenderness in the ankle. Ankle arthritis, flexor retinaculum strain, and tarsal tunnel syndrome can also cause ankle pain. If you are suffering from a mysteriously aching ankle, please seek the care of a podiatrist.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Nate Hansen from Hansen Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 office located in Mill Creek, WA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.