Ankle pain can make standing, walking, and running uncomfortable because the ankle supports the body’s weight during movement. Pain can result from an injury or a condition affecting the joint. Sprains and strains can damage the soft tissues that support the ankle. A fracture can cause intense pain, swelling, and difficulty putting weight on the foot. Arthritis can also contribute to ankle pain. Osteoarthritis develops when joint cartilage breaks down, while gout causes painful crystals to collect in a joint. Previous ankle injuries can increase the risk of arthritis later.

Pain at the back of the ankle or heel can involve the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. Achilles tendinitis can develop after overuse or intense strain. Symptoms include stiffness, tenderness, and pain behind the ankle or in the calf. A torn Achilles tendon can cause swelling near the heel and make it difficult to bear weight on the toes. Heel bursitis is another possible source of discomfort. It affects a small, fluid-filled cushion near the back of the heel that helps reduce friction around the joint.

A podiatrist can evaluate ankle pain by examining joint movement, muscle function, and areas of tenderness. The evaluation can also consider how the foot, knee, and lower leg affect ankle mechanics. Podiatric care can focus on restoring comfortable joint movement and addressing mechanical strain. Treatment can include gentle joint mobilization, guided stretching, and strengthening exercises based on the examination findings. A podiatrist can also assess walking patterns that place added stress on the ankle. Severe pain or an inability to bear weight deserves prompt evaluation because a serious injury could be present. 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 one of our podiatrists from Kokomo Foot & Ankle Center. 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 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 Contact Us . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.