Ankle pain without a direct injury can seem unexpected, but several conditions can cause discomfort without a clear accident or fall. Arthritis, gout, and Achilles tendon injuries are among some of the problems that can all affect the ankle. Arthritis can cause pain, stiffness, and tenderness when the joint changes. Gout is a type of arthritis that can cause sudden, severe pain when crystals build up inside a joint. Bursitis develops when small fluid-filled sacs near the ankle become irritated. Fallen arches can also place extra stress on the feet and ankles. In addition, repeated activity can irritate the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscle to the heel.
A podiatrist can examine the foot and ankle to help determine what is causing the pain. The evaluation can include checking the ankle's movement, looking for swelling, and examining areas of tenderness. A podiatrist can also review your symptoms and ask about your activity level, previous foot or ankle problems, and other health conditions that could relate to the pain. Imaging tests can provide additional information when a structural problem is suspected. X-rays can show changes in bones and joints, while an ultrasound can help identify problems involving tendons. Finding the cause is important because treatment depends on what is behind the ankle pain.
Once the cause has been identified, a podiatrist can recommend an appropriate treatment plan. Treatment can include wearing supportive shoes or inserts, bracing, or medication, when appropriate. Some conditions require more specialized treatment, while severe tendon or joint problems can sometimes require surgery. A podiatrist can also monitor your progress and make changes to treatment based on your symptoms and examination findings. Ankle pain that appears without a direct injury should not be ignored, particularly when it is persistent, severe, or accompanied by swelling or stiffness. If you have ankle pain without direct injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Melissa C. Verde, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendinitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Longwood, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Dr. Melissa
Dr. Raluca