Ankle pain develops when the bones, joints, or surrounding tissues become injured or irritated. The ankle supports body weight and allows the foot to move while standing and walking. Because the joint handles repeated pressure, many problems can cause discomfort. Ankle sprains occur when the joint twists and stretches the tissues that provide support. Repeated strains also irritate the muscles or tendons around the ankle. Other causes involve changes within the joint or an injury to a bone. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and stiffness. Some patients also notice tenderness or difficulty placing weight on the affected foot. Ankle pain limits movement and makes walking or climbing stairs uncomfortable. The location and severity of symptoms can provide important information about the cause.
A podiatrist evaluates ankle pain by examining the foot and ankle and asking how the symptoms developed. An evaluation includes checking joint movement, areas of tenderness, and ankle stability. The podiatrist also observes how the patient stands and walks to identify changes caused by discomfort. Imaging tests provides additional information when a closer look at the bones or joint is appropriate. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the ankle pain. A podiatrist can provide supportive devices that help stabilize the ankle and reduce harmful movement. Custom orthotics can improve foot support and pressure distribution. Professionally guided exercises can also help restore ankle flexibility and strength as part of a treatment plan.
Ankle pain affects balance and causes patients to change how they walk. Shifting weight away from the painful ankle can place added stress on other areas of the foot or leg. A podiatrist identifies these movement changes and develops a treatment plan focused on improving function. Care helps reduce painful stress, improve mobility, and support better ankle stability. Regular evaluations allow the podiatrist to monitor symptoms and adjust treatment as movement improves. Addressing the source of ankle pain supports more comfortable movement and helps patients return to normal activities. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Emmanuel Bustos, DPM from New York City. 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 tendonitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Bursitis
- 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 the Upper West Side and New York City, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
