Ankle pain can quietly interfere with daily life, whether it starts as swelling after a long walk or stiffness that greets you first thing in the morning. The ankle may appear puffy, warm, or mildly red, and it can feel sore, tight, or unstable when standing or moving. Common causes include overuse, sprains, arthritis-related joint inflammation, or footwear that does not properly support the ankle. A podiatrist begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination and may use imaging studies to confirm the diagnosis and rule out fractures, arthritis changes, or tendon injuries. Treatment is individualized and may include strengthening exercises, supportive braces or custom orthotics, and anti-inflammatory approaches to reduce pain and swelling. With appropriate care, many people regain comfort and confidence in their steps. Addressing ankle pain early can help prevent chronic problems and preserve mobility. If you are experiencing ankle pain, scheduling an appointment with a podiatrist is suggested for personalized care and long-term relief.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Howard Horowitz from Bowie Foot & Ankle . 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 Bowie, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
