Ankle Pain

Feet | Orthopaedics | Ankle Pain (Symptom)


Description

The ankle is a hinged joint. Ankle pain can occur due to injury or disease of the ankle joint. The severity of ankle sprains varies from mild, which can resolve within 24 hours, to severe, which can require surgical repair.

Causes

An ankle sprain is an injury to the ligaments, which connect bones to one another. In most cases, the ankle is twisted inward, causing small tears in the ligaments. The tearing leads to swelling and bruising, making it difficult to bear weight on the joint.

In addition to ankle sprains, ankle pain can be caused by: damage or swelling of tendons, which join muscles to bone, or cartilage, which cushions joints, infection in the ankle joint, osteoarthritis, goutrheumatoid arthritis, Reiter syndrome, and other types of arthritis. Problems in areas near the ankle that can cause pain in the ankle include: blockage of blood vessels in the leg, heel pain or injuries, nerve injuries such as Tarsal Tunnel syndrome or Sciatica.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Initial treatment may consist of rest, ice, elevation, and immobilization, but may also include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, physical therapy, and cortisone injection. A foot and ankle surgeon can best determine the cause of the ankle pain and appropriate treatment options.

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