Common Causes and Treatments for Ankle Pain

Any kind of pain or discomfort in the ankle area is called ankle pain. It can be due to many reasons, the most common being arthritis, injury, or normal wear and tear. In this post, we will discuss the common causes of ankle pain in detail and the types of treatment for foot pain in Houston.

Common Causes of Ankle Pain

Ankle pain can be a result from several injuries and conditions. The treatment for foot pain in Houston will depend on  the causes and symptoms being experienced.

• Fractures: Fractures are caused by an accident or injury and may range from mild to severe. They can involve bones in any part of the ankle joint and cause ankle swelling and pain.
• Bursitis: Bursae are fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones when they move. Bursitis happens when the sacs become irritated and inflamed.
• Sprains: Sprained ankles are another common cause of ankle pain. It occurs when ligaments stretch or tear or when the ankle rolls forcefully out of its normal position.
• Tendonitis: Inflamed and irritated tendons are a soft-tissue injury called tendonitis. Tendons connect the muscles to bones but can sometimes tear and need surgical repair.
• Arthritis: Ankle arthritis often causes pain and stiffness in the ankle joint and occurs when the cartilage breaks down. This breakdown causes bones to rub together. Many types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, can affect the ankles.
• Flatfoot: sometimes, pain and swelling are caused in the ankles and feet due to a very low arch. This can be a common issue for children due to the arch not developing properly as they grow, which results in this condition.
• Gout: Gout is a type of arthritis that results from the buildup of uric acid throughout the body. Uric acid leaves the body along with urine, but excess uric acid can create crystals that settle in the joints. Having gout in the ankle can be very painful.
• Infection: Many types of infections, like cellulitis or osteomyelitis, can cause pain and swelling in the ankle joint.

Treatment of Ankle Pain

The foot specialist will examine your ankle and foot and check for pain, swelling, and bruising. The testing will depend on the location of the pain and whether you have recently had an injury. They may order imaging tests like CT, X-ray, or MRI scans to create images of bones and soft tissues in order to check for damage. If you have an infection, you may need a biopsy. Common treatments for ankle pain include:

• Joint aspiration: This procedure includes your provider inserting a needle into the joint and removing excess fluid, thus relieving pain and swelling.
• Braces and splints: Ankle braces can relieve pain and stabilize your ankle. Since some braces are better for certain activities, the healthcare provider will recommend the one that works best for your lifestyle.
• Medications: Several types of medications also reduce inflammation and relieve ankle pain and swelling.
• Physical therapy (PT): The foot specialist may also set up a customized PT program that can help improve flexibility and strengthen muscles that support your ankle. The plan will include exercises and stretches designed for your condition.

Final Take

Some other treatment options for ankle pain include orthotic inserts, steroid injections, and even surgery. The type of treatment for ankle pain that your medical professional gives you will depend on the cause and symptoms of your condition.

Featured Image Source: https://media.istockphoto.com/id/1133551485/photo/runner-leg-injury.jpg?s=612×612&w=0&k=20&c=qjHR6zxGwl6jQaLcKH6Iunj5Vs3iqAxkMrESW8-JBSs=