Treatments for Ankle Pain

Posted On: Nov 1, 2023

Ankle pain is a common problem that can affect people of all ages. It can be caused by various factors, including injuries, overuse, and medical conditions. If you have reoccurring ankle pain, there are a number of treatments that can help.

Symptoms of Reoccurring Ankle Pain

The symptoms of reoccurring ankle pain can vary depending on the underlying cause. However, some common symptoms include:

Ankle Pain
Ankle Swelling
Ankle Stiffness
Ankle Bruising
Ankle Redness
Ankle Warmth
Difficulty walking or standing

Why Does My Ankle Hurt?

There are many reasons why your ankle might hurt. Some of the most common causes include:

Injuries: Ankle injuries are a common cause of ankle pain. These injuries can include sprains, strains, and fractures.
Overuse: Overuse can also lead to ankle pain. This is especially common in people who participate in sports or activities that put a lot of stress on the ankles.
Arthritis in the ankle: Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation of the joints. It can affect any joint in the body, including the ankles.
Gout in the ankle: Gout is a common form of inflammatory arthritis that causes severe pain, redness, and swelling in the joints. It is caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, which can occur anywhere in the body, including the ankle. While gout most commonly affects the big toe, it can affect any joint.
Cramping ankles: Muscle cramps in the ankles can be caused by a number of factors, including dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and muscle strain.
Ankle tendon pain: Ankle tendon pain can be caused by overuse or inflammation of the tendons in the ankle.
Ankle bone pain: Ankle bone pain can be caused by several factors, including injuries, fractures, and infections.
Sharp pain in the ankle: Sharp pain in the ankle can be caused by a number of factors, including injuries, nerve entrapment, and arthritis.
Plantar Fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis is a condition that causes inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. Plantar fasciitis can cause pain in the heel and arch of the foot, but it can also cause pain in the ankle.
Flat Feet: Flat feet are a condition in which the arches of the feet are collapsed. Flat feet can increase the risk of developing ankle pain, especially if you are active or have a history of ankle injuries.
Ankle tightness: A tight ankle can be caused by several factors, including muscle tightness, inflammation, and arthritis.
Ankle pain in the morning: Ankle pain in the morning can be caused by a number of factors, including muscle stiffness, inflammation, and arthritis.

Treatments for Reoccurring Ankle Pain

There are treatments that can help to relieve reoccurring ankle pain. Some of the most common treatments include:

Rest: Resting your ankle is important for allowing it to heal. You may need to use crutches or a cane to avoid putting weight on your ankle.
Ice: Applying ice to your ankle for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day, can help to reduce inflammation and pain.
Compression: Compression bandages or wraps can help to reduce swelling and support the ankle.
Elevation: Elevating your ankle above the level of your heart can help to reduce swelling.
Over-the-counter Pain Medications: Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can help to relieve pain and inflammation.
Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can help to strengthen the muscles around the ankle and improve your range of motion.
Joint Injections: Injections of corticosteroids or other medications can help to reduce inflammation and pain.
Surgery: Surgery may be necessary in some cases, such as when the ankle is severely damaged or when other treatments have not been effective.

When to See a Pain Management Specialist for Ankle Pain

If you have reoccurring ankle pain, it is important to see a pain management specialist to get a diagnosis and discuss treatment options. You should also see a doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:

Severe ankle pain
Ankle swelling that does not improve with rest and ice
Redness and warmth around the ankle
Difficulty walking or standing
Fever

Reoccurring ankle pain can be a frustrating problem. However, there are a number of treatments that can help to relieve pain and improve function. The best way to diagnose and fix ankle pain long-term is to visit a National Spine & Pain Centers affiliated pain management specialist. They will develop a treatment plan to ease your pain by getting to the root of the problem.

Find a National Spine & Pain Centers affiliated location today.