Ankle Pain Treatment
What is Ankle Pain?
Ankle pain refers to any discomfort or pain affecting any part of the ankle. Ankle pain can be caused by a variety of factors. Among the most common causes are injury, arthritis, and general wear and tear. You may feel pain or stiffness around your ankle depending on the cause. Additionally, your ankle may swell and keep you from putting any weight on it.
In most cases, ankle pain can be relieved with rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medications. Injuries and arthritis can be treated by healthcare providers. Many conditions can be treated without surgery. In severe cases, such as a broken ankle bone, or when nonsurgical treatment fails to relieve ankle pain, surgery may be necessary. A physical therapy plan can also help you heal after an ankle injury or surgery. The muscles that support your feet and ankles are strengthened through physical therapy. Pain can be relieved and future injuries can be prevented with the therapy.
Is Ankle Pain Common?
It is very common to suffer from ankle pain and ankle injuries. Ankle pain is more likely to occur if you:
- Over 65 years of age.
- Take part in sports or activities that require you to jump, move side to side, or change directions quickly.
- Overweight or obese.
What Causes an Ankle Pain?
Ankle pain can be caused by a variety of injuries and conditions. Among the most common ankle injuries are:
Bursitis: A fluid-filled sac called a bursa cushions your bones when they move. Bursitis occurs when these sacs become inflamed and irritated.
Fractures: A fracture occurs when a bone breaks due to an accident or injury. Ankle fractures range from mild to severe. Broken ankles can involve bones in any part of the ankle joint. Swelling and pain are common symptoms of a broken ankle.
Sprains: A sprained ankle is one of the most common causes of ankle pain. An ankle sprain occurs when ligaments stretch or tear. Ankle sprains and twists occur when the ankle is forced out of its normal position.
Tendonitis: Soft-tissue injuries such as tendonitis are caused by inflamed or irritated tendons. Muscles and bones are connected by tendon. Occasionally, tendons can tear (such as the Achilles tendon). The repair of a torn tendon may require surgery.
How Can I Relieve Ankle Pain?
These are the most common home remedies for ankle pain:
Rest: In the case of an injury such as a sprain, it is best to stay off your feet for a while. Consult your provider about how long you should rest. You can use crutches or a walking boot to avoid putting weight on your ankle.
Ice: Apply ice or a cold compress to the area for 15 to 20 minutes every few hours to reduce swelling.
Compression: In case of ankle inflammation, ask your provider about wrapping an elastic bandage or wearing a compression socks. It will protect your ankles and help you relieve any pain you may be experiencing.
Supportive ankle brace: Avoid flip-flops, sandals and shoes that are too loose. When playing sports, wearing an lace-up ankle brace is especially important. Without ankle protection, sports such as basketball and volleyball can cause ankle injuries.