What is Ankle Pain?
Ankle pain refers to any form of pain or discomfort affecting the ankle joint. Your ankles bear the weight of your entire body and play a unique role during human locomotion with very intricate anatomy that need to work in harmony to prevent pain and/or instability.
The ankle joint is composed of three bones: the tibia, fibula, and talus. It connects the leg to the foot. The tibia or shinbone, and fibula or calf bone, are lower leg bones that articulate with the talus or ankle bone. These bones are held together by a wide range of ligaments, tendons, and muscles which allow foot mobility.
What are the Causes of Ankle Pain?
Common causes of ankle pain include:
- Sprains due to stretching of ligaments
- Arthritis
- Achilles Tendonitis
- Nerve Damage (Neuropathy)
- Direct trauma
- Fractures
- Infection
What are the Symptoms that Accompany Ankle Pain?
Some of the common signs and symptoms that accompany ankle pain include:
- Ankle swelling and redness
- Bruising
- Numbness or tingling sensation
- Stiffness and weakness
- Instability
- Inability to bear weight on the affected ankle
Diagnosis of Ankle Pain
Dr. Richardson will review your symptoms and medical history and a physical examination of the ankle will be conducted. He may also recommend the following diagnostic tests:
- X-rays: This study uses electromagnetic beams to produce images of the bones and joints often used to detect fractures.
- CT scan: Special x-rays are used to produce images of the bones and joints that have very fine detail and offer three dimensional reconstruction of the anatomy involved.
- MRI Scan: An imaging study that uses a large magnetic field and radio waves to detect any damage to the soft tissues including ligaments and tendons supporting the ankle.
- Ultrasound: This study uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the tissues that are often performed while moving the ankle.
What are the Treatments for Ankle Pain?
Treatments for ankle pain include:
- Medications: Over the counter analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen can relieve pain and inflammation caused by an ankle injury.
- Icing: Application of an ice pack over a towel on the affected area for several minutes a day to relieve pain and swelling.
- Physical Therapy: Professional guidance with strengthening and stretching exercises may be recommended to help improve your symptoms.
- Cortisone Injections: Injection of corticosteroid medication into the ankle joint can help relieve pain and swelling for certain conditions.