Ankle Pain Causes, Symptoms and Treatments
Ankle Injuries
Ankle pain is a normal occurrence. Have you experienced ankle pain? Are you suffering from this problem right now? Are you unsure of the cause of ankle pain?
Are you looking for information on the ankle pain causes, symptoms, and treatment?
Ankle pain is a usual complaint. It’s important to give attention to ankle pain promptly. Do not neglect the problem. Have your condition diagnosed and commence on the recommended treatment right away. Doing this may prevent your problem from worsening and causing permanent damage.
Causes of Ankle Pain
- Arthritis is one cause of ankle pain. It’s a degenerative condition of the joints. Cartilage wears away and this causes pain. Those with prior injuries on the ankle joints are more susceptible to developing arthritis. Ankle sprains are a cause of pain. Injury is often to the ligaments surrounding the ankle. Swelling and inflammation may accompany pain and injury.
- Tendonitis is another cause of ankle pain. Tendons connect muscles to bones. When inflamed or irritated, tendonitis causes problems in walking and in running. Daily activities may become extremely difficult and unbearable. Achilles Tendonitis is a kind of tendonitis affecting the back joint.
- Fractures are another cause of ankle pain. Broken bones can be extremely painful. If you suffer from fracture, immediately consult a doctor. X-rays may be ordered after which your ankle may be put on a cast or a splint. You may even need surgery.
- Overuse is another cause of ankle pain. Too much strenuous activity on a regular basis puts too much stress on your ankles. Inappropriate shoe wear is also a cause. Other causes are gout, bad circulation, nerve and bone damage.
Symptoms of Ankle Pain
Signs and symptoms of injury to look out for are: problems with walking (on the painful part), deformity around the joint, pain felt at night or at rest, persisting ankle pain, problems bending the ankle , swelling and inflammation on the joints and calf, and infection (redness and fever).
Ankle Injury Treatments
- Treatment for ankle pains varies depending on the seriousness of your condition. Rest is a primary recommendation. Rest your ankles till swelling and inflammation subside. If walking is unavoidable, use crutches, splints, and a temporary cast. For more serious injuries, braces, special footwear, and orthotics may be prescribed. Cold and warm compress may also be advised. Use ice packs as well as heat pads.
- Stretching is a needed treatment. When inflammation and swelling subside or upon recommendation of an experienced doctor, begin doing light stretching exercises. Stretch your muscles, your tendons, and your ligaments. This will help relieve pain and this will promote healing. Recline, elevate your affected ankle and rest it enough. Physical therapy may be required most especially in serious conditions.
- For immediate relief, anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesics, pain relievers, cortisone shots and other steroidal applications may be used. Do not use these temporary relievers alone. Seek proper treatment promptly.
- Wear proper shoes, more so if you are an athlete, a runner, or a sports player. Inappropriate footgear cause stress on your feet and ankles. Wear shoes with enough padding and cushioning. Wear good quality shoes. Arch support must be good, durable, maintaining flexibility and mobility. Check for good orthotics. Also check your current footwear for needed replacement (of cushions or of the actual shoes).
- Maintain a healthy diet. If you are suffering from gout and arthritis, avoid beans, liver, kidney, shellfish, and others that raise uric acid levels. Refrain from drinking alcohol. If unavoidable, limit intake to minimum levels. And keep your weight within the normal range.
Knee and Leg Pain Causes and Treatment Methods >>
<< Causes of Knee Pain and its Treatment
COMMENT