Why Is My Ankle So Sore and Painful?
Ankle pain is one of the most common reasons patients seek the expertise of a podiatrist. Your feet and ankles are hardworking structures that support the entire weight of your body, absorbing shock with each step. But despite their strength and resilience, the complex network of bones, tendons, ligaments, and muscles can become injured or inflamed. Understanding the cause of your ankle pain is the first step in effective treatment and recovery.
Why Is My Ankle So Painful? Understanding the Causes and Finding Relief
If you’ve noticed persistent ankle discomfort, it’s important to consult with a podiatrist. Dyker Park Footcare, PLLC specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of ankle issues, from acute injuries to chronic conditions. Here are a few common causes of ankle pain:
The most common cause of ankle pain, sprains and strains happen when the ligaments or tendons around your ankle are stretched beyond their normal range of motion. This can occur if you twist your ankle by stepping on an uneven surface, like a curb, or making a sudden, awkward movement.
A sprain may cause pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving your foot. While minor sprains can be treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (the R.I.C.E. method), more severe sprains may require professional treatment, including physical therapy to rebuild strength and flexibility. Failing to address a more serious sprain may result in chronic ankle instability, where the ankle becomes prone to re-injury.
The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, and it's one of the strongest tendons in the body. However, it’s also prone to injury, especially among athletes or people who suddenly increase the intensity of physical activity without proper conditioning. Achilles tendinitis, a common overuse injury, results in pain, stiffness, and swelling in the back of the ankle.
A more severe injury, such as a complete Achilles tendon rupture, causes intense pain and typically requires surgical intervention for full recovery. Early diagnosis and treatment of Achilles injuries can help prevent long-term complications and improve healing time.
3. Tendonitis
Tendonitis refers to inflammation of the tendons that surround the ankle joint. This condition can be caused by repetitive motion or sudden overuse, leading to pain and swelling. Tendonitis often affects the peroneal tendons on the outer part of the ankle or the posterior tibial tendon, which helps support the arch of the foot.
Proper rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and targeted exercises can help alleviate tendonitis symptoms. In some cases, wearing a supportive brace or orthotics may be recommended to stabilize the ankle and prevent further strain.
4. Arthritis and Joint Degeneration
Over time, wear and tear on the joints can lead to various forms of arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. These conditions cause inflammation in the joints, resulting in pain, stiffness, and swelling. Since the ankle is a weight-bearing joint, it is particularly susceptible to the effects of arthritis.
Arthritis may develop gradually and can sometimes mimic the symptoms of an acute injury, so it’s important to have a thorough evaluation to determine the cause of your ankle discomfort. Treatment options vary depending on the type and severity of the arthritis but may include medications, physical therapy, or even surgical intervention for more advanced cases.
5. Bursitis
Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that help reduce friction and cushion pressure points between your bones and tendons. When these sacs become inflamed, it’s known as bursitis. Ankle bursitis often affects the Achilles tendon area, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the ankle.
Treatment for bursitis typically includes rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications. In more severe cases, your podiatrist may recommend physical therapy or aspiration (draining the fluid from the bursa) to reduce inflammation.
6. Fractures
While fractures are less common than sprains or strains, they are still a significant cause of ankle pain. A fracture can occur from a direct impact, like a fall or car accident, or from an overload of stress over time. If you suspect a bone fracture, it’s important to seek medical care immediately for an X-ray and proper treatment.
When to See our Podiatrists
If your ankle pain persists for more than a few days or is accompanied by swelling, bruising, or difficulty bearing weight, it’s time to seek professional help. Dyker Park Footcare, PLLC located in Brooklyn, NY can help you determine the cause of your ankle pain and create a personalized treatment plan to relieve discomfort and restore function. Whether it's a simple sprain or a more complex condition, early intervention is key to a full recovery.
Don’t let ankle pain hold you back. Call Dyker Park Footcare, PLLC (718) 745-6220 or request an appointment online today. Your feet, ankles—and your quality of life—will thank you!