ANKLE PAIN/SPRAINS

Generalized ankle pain can be caused by a variety of different reasons. Some of the most common are arthritis and sprains. 

​

Ankle Arthritis:

Arthritis of the ankle joint is a result of the cartilage wearing down, which causes a rough bone-on-bone joint. Think of it as a 'wear and tear' item within your body. Symptoms usually involve a generalized ache with activity, and may correlate with weather changes. Arthritis is typically caused by either natural aging (a gradual onset, getting progressively worse), or by a traumatic event (sudden onset by injury). In some other cases, the arthritis may be caused by an underlying autoimmune disease (Rheumatoid, Psoriasis, etc).

​

Ankle Sprains:

Ankle sprains are an extremely common injury. They typically involve either a traumatic event or a sudden motion of the foot on an uneven surface. Symptoms usually involve an unstable ankle, or the feeling of an ankle joint giving out. There is often pain and discomfort associated as well. Typically, the lateral ankle ligaments are the ones most prone to injury. These injuries are best treated immediately as to give conservative care the best chance of working and being an option.

​

Treatment varies depending on your condition, but X-rays are usually obtained to assess the ankle joint itself. We usually attempt conservative care if appropriate, which may involve immobilization, injections, and/or bracing. However, if little to no improvement is made surgical intervention may be required.

For more information, please feel free to get in touch with us.