How To Treat Ankle Pain?

By Kripal Negi

Reviewed by : Jalaz Jain

January 21, 2023

It refers to any discomfort or pain affecting any ankle part. The most common causes are normal wear and tear, arthritis and injury. The result might be swelling of the ankle, or one might be unable to even put weight on it.

Some usual cures for ankle pain include over-the-counter pain medications, ice, or rest. In addition, healthcare providers can treat injuries and arthritis. In some cases, the conditions can be treated with no involvement in surgery.

But in the cases of serious injuries, like a broken ankle bone, or when the ankle does not improve with nonsurgical treatment, surgery should not be avoided. After an ankle injury or surgery, planning physical therapy(PT) can also help with the healing process. PT can strengthen the muscles that support your feet and ankles. In addition, it (the therapy) can help relieve pain and prevent future injuries.

How frequent is ankle pain?

Experiencing ankle pain or ankle injuries is a prevalent thing. However, you are more likely to have ankle pain in some cases. These cases are:

You are over the age of 65.

You play sports or do activities involving jumping, side-to-side movements or quick changes in direction.

You are obese or overweight.

If the above mentioned cases match your case, you are more likely to have ankle pain . Consult your doctor and get effective treatment.

What are ankle pain causes?

Several injuries and conditions can land one with pain in the ankle. However, some injuries are widespread when causing ankle pain. Some reasons behind the discomfort ankle pain causes are:

Bursitis: Bursae are sacs filled with fluids. These sacs cushion the bones when they are in motion. When these sacs become irritated and inflamed, the condition is called bursitis.

Fractures: A fracture(broken bone) can result from an accident or injury. Ankle fractures vary from mild to severe. Any part of the ankle joint can be involved in a case of a broken ankle. It can cause ankle swelling and pain.

Sprains: A widespread cause of ankle pain is a sprained ankle. When ligaments are stretched or torn, it results in an ankle sprain. Sprained or twisted ankles can result from the ankle rolling forcefully out of its normal position.

Tendonitis: Tendonitis refers to a soft-tissue ink=jury in which tendons become irritated and inflamed. Tendons connect muscles and bones. Sometimes, tendons get torn (example-the Achilles tendon rupture). The surgical repair might be needed in the case of a torn tendon.

It can also be the result of many diseases, disorders and conditions. These include:

Arthritis: Ankle arthritis can lead to pain and stiffness in the ankle joint. When the cartilage(tissue in joints that cushions bones) breaks down, arthritis happens. The cartilage breakdown causes the bones to rub together. Injuries and overuse can lead to arthritis. It is more commonly seen in people above the age of 65. Although several types of arthritis can affect the ankles, the common ones are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

Flatfoot: The ankles and feet can get swollen or hurt due to a shallow arch (or no arch). Sometimes, the arches of kids’ feet do not develop normally as they grow up. It can lead to flatfoot conditions.

Gout: The buildup of uric acid throughout the body leads to gout. It is a type of arthritis. Typically, urine helps the body get rid of uric acid. Excess uric acid results in the creation of crystals that settle in the joints. In the ankles, gout can be excruciatingly painful.

Infection: Swelling and pain in the ankle joint can also be caused by several types of infections. One such infection is cellulitis. A staph infection can lead to a bone infection named osteomyelitis.

These are the most common causes of ankle pain. But no need to worry. There are ankle pain remedies as well!

How to cure ankle pain?

After all the causes mentioned in the previous question, there is one question- How to cure ankle pain?

Over-the-counter medication, ice and rest can help most ankle pain treatment at home . In the case of at-home treatments for ankle pain, you should follow your provider’s instructions. Your provider may recommend the RICE method (rest, ice, compression and elevation). If the pain is severe, or your ankle continues to hurt even after a few days of at-home care, make sure to see your provider.

There are several methods of getting some relief in the case of ankle pain. The most common ankle pain remedies are:

The ways mentioned above are just some for ankle pain treatment at home , but you should make sure to contact your provider before going for any such treatment.

How can one avoid ankle pain?

Preventing ankle pain does not sound like a feasible possibility. But if the bones, ligaments, and tendons are kept strong by maintaining good health, you can stay in good shape. In addition, specific ways prevent pain if caused by injuries. These are:

Maintain a healthy weight: Carrying extra weights can result in your joints, including your ankles, experiencing excessive pressure.

Strengthen other muscles: The ankles can be supported if other muscles are strong, and the risk of injury can be reduced .

Stop if you feel pain: Pain should not be ignored. If feeling any, it is vital to take notice of pain. In case of an activity or a movement causing discomfort, you should take a break. If the pain does not get better, it is advisable to meet your provider. Exercising continuously through pain can result in the affected point hurting more.

Warm up properly: It is good to stretch before exercising. When warm, soft tissues and muscles (like ligaments and tendons) are less likely to take damage.

Mentioned above are some ways to prevent the discomfort that ankle pain causes . It is good to consider such things before and after doing activities.

In case of ankle pain, when should I contact my doctor?

There are some instances in which you should consult with your healthcare provider. These cases are:

The ankle pain is excruciating or you do not get relief even after two or three days of at-home treatment.

There is sudden pain or swelling.

You have a fever, or the affected area is red or warm to the touch. These can be signs of an infection.

Your ankle cannot bear weight.

Ankle pain can indicate injuries or conditions. In case of swelling, stiffness and pain, walking can be difficult or impossible. With ankle pain treatment at home being an option, you can try elevating your foot or getting plenty of rest. In the case of ankle pain, surgery might not be a requirement.

However, if the pain is severe, there is a lot of swelling, or there is no relief in pain even after a few days, you must go and see your provider. Get your ankle treated at Ujala Cygnus Hospital for an excellent ankle treatment.

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