Ankle Pain? Here’s When to See a Foot and Ankle Doctor Near You

Ankle pain is a common issue that many people face at some point in their lives. Whether it is mild discomfort or severe pain, ignoring it can lead to worsening symptoms. Minor aches can sometimes resolve on their own. However, the pain should not be overlooked if it persists or impacts mobility.

 

This article explores the most common causes of ankle pain and the treatment options available for you.

Common Causes of Ankle Pain 

Ankle pain can have a variety of causes, ranging from temporary injuries to chronic conditions:

1. Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains are one of the leading causes of ankle pain. Sprains occur when the ligaments in the ankle stretch or tear due to sudden twisting or rolling of the ankle.

 

Symptoms often include swelling, bruising, and limited motion. Sprains can range from mild to severe, and untreated sprains may lead to long-term instability.

2. Arthritis

Arthritis, like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, is a chronic condition that can cause joint pain.

 

Osteoarthritis results from wear and tear on the joints, which is common as we age. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks joint tissues.

 

Arthritis in the ankle can make walking and standing increasingly difficult without proper treatment.

3. Tendinitis

Tendinitis is inflammation or irritation of the tendons, which are the thick cords that connect muscles to bones.

 

Tendinitis in the ankle often occurs due to repetitive motion or overuse. Running and high-impact sports are common causes. This condition is common in athletes and active individuals.

4. Fractures or Broken Bones 

Ankle fractures can occur from accidents, falls, or severe impacts. Symptoms of fractures include severe pain, swelling, and an inability to bear weight.

 

Even minor fractures require immediate medical attention to prevent complications.

5. Achilles Tendon Injuries 

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body and is essential for walking, running, and jumping.

 

Injuries to this tendon, such as tendon tears or ruptures, can cause significant ankle pain. Achilles tendon injuries often result from sudden physical activities or overexertion.

6. Gout 

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. It often affects the big toe but can also cause severe pain in the ankle.

 

Gout flare-ups are intensely painful and may come and go without proper treatment.

7. Bursitis 

Bursitis occurs when the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints become inflamed. Ankle bursitis can cause swelling, tenderness, and discomfort.

 

The symptoms especially occur when wearing tight footwear or engaging in repetitive movements.

 

Not all ankle pain comes from injuries or conditions like these. Sometimes, underlying medical conditions such as infections or nerve issues can lead to ankle discomfort.

 

Understanding the root cause is critical to finding relief.

Treatment Options for Ankle Pain in Wentzville, MO 

If ankle pain is hindering your daily life, it can help to see a podiatrist. Here are some treatments they may recommend:

1. Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE) 

Mild pain caused by minor sprains or overuse is often treated with the RICE method.

• Resting the ankle and avoiding weight-bearing activities helps reduce strain.
• Applying ice packs reduces swelling and inflammation.
• Wrapping the ankle with a compression bandage provides added support.
• Elevating the foot can minimize swelling and improve overall comfort.

2. Physical Therapy 

Physical therapy helps strengthen the ankle and improve flexibility after an injury. Therapists design exercises that target specific muscles and ligaments for mobility.

 

Physical therapy is also used to prevent future injuries.

3. Custom Orthotics 

Orthotics are custom-made shoe inserts that provide support and alignment to the feet. These are particularly beneficial for conditions like arthritis, tendinitis, and flat feet.

 

Podiatrists can create orthotics tailored to your specific needs.

4. Medications 

Some conditions involve inflammation and pain, such as gout or tendinitis. For these, anti-inflammatory medications can offer temporary relief.

 

Your ankle pain doctor may also recommend corticosteroid injections for more severe cases. These medications reduce inflammation and pain quickly.

5. Advanced Imaging and Diagnosis 

Specialized clinics offer advanced imaging technologies like X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans. Your foot doctor can use them to diagnose the exact cause of your ankle pain.

 

Advanced diagnostics ensure that every patient receives the most effective treatment for their condition.

6. Minimally Invasive Procedures 

For more severe cases like fractures or tendon injuries, minimally invasive surgery may be required.

 

These procedures reduce recovery time and offer better outcomes compared to traditional open surgeries.

7. Lifestyle Modifications and Preventive Care 

Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes to prevent recurring ankle pain. These could include:

• Using better footwear
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Avoiding high-impact activities that strain the ankle

 

At Advanced Bone & Joint in Wentzville, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive treatment for you. Our experienced specialists use the latest technologies combined with personalized care.

Foot and Ankle Specialist in Wentzville, MO

Ankle pain can disrupt your life, but it does not have to. By knowing the causes and exploring the available treatments, you can take the first step toward recovery. Advanced Bone & Joint in Wentzville, MO, is here to help. Whether you are dealing with a sprain, arthritis, or another condition, we offer expert care tailored to your needs.

 

Call us today at (636) 229-4222 or submit an appointment request form on our website to start your journey toward pain-free movement. You deserve to walk, run, and live without ankle pain.

 

The best foot and ankle specialists near you look forward to serving you!

 

 

 

Sources:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/15295-ankle-pain

https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/ankle-pain/basics/causes/sym-20050796

https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/ankle-pain/basics/when-to-see-doctor/sym-20050796