An ache that lingers throughout the day. Stiffness when you get out of bed. Sharp pains during or after a workout. No matter what form your ankle pain takes, it can slow you down. But what’s causing it?
Your ankles do a lot of work for you every day, so they could just be sore. But depending on where your pain is and the types of symptoms you’re experiencing, your ankle pain could be something more.
Read on to learn about some of the most common causes of ankle pain, what you can do to get relief and when to see a podiatrist, a doctor who specializes in foot and ankle issues.
Why your ankle hurts: Common causes of ankle pain
Ankle pain is very common and can affect people of all ages. Injuries, overuse, certain health conditions and even wearing improper footwear can make your ankles hurt. And you might experience different signs and symptoms depending on the cause.
Here are some of the most common causes of ankle pain, and symptoms you can expect with each, to help you narrow down what might be making your ankle hurt.
Ankle injuries from overuse or trauma
Ankle injuries can occur suddenly like an ankle sprain, foot fracture or an Achilles tendon rupture. These are often accompanied by sharp, shooting pain that can be debilitating and send you to the hospital.
But normal wear and tear from long-term, repetitive use can also take its toll on your ankle and cause injury. This type of ankle pain might feel like a dull ache, stiffness or sore muscles. If you’re noticing that your ankle(s) hurt after walking, running or other activities don’t ignore it. Seeking care early can help you avoid more severe ankle pain or injuries.
Common injuries that cause ankle pain
When you think of ankle injuries you might picture your favorite quarterback coming down too hard after a pass, or your child tripping at the playground. But there are many different types of injuries that can cause ankle pain, including:
- Achillies tendon injuries
- Broken bone or fracture
- Pinched nerve
- Sports injuries
- Sprains and strains
Health conditions that affect your joints can hurt your ankles
Injuries and overuse aren’t the only causes of ankle pain. Inflammation in your joints and muscle tendons can also be a source of ankle pain, which is often caused by one of these health conditions:
- Arthritis: Inflammation within a joint that can lead to swelling, stiffness and tenderness.
- Ankle bursitis: When one or more of the bursae (small fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction between tendons, bones and joints) becomes inflamed and swollen, causing pain and difficulty moving the ankle.
- Gout: Elevated levels of uric acid can cause urate crystal buildup within joints. Gout usually affects the joints furthest away from the heart and can lead to swollen, red, warm and painful joints.
- Peroneal tendonitis: Pain to the outer ankle may be from instability that has led to inflammation or tearing of the muscles or tendons.
When your ankle hurts you want to get relief as quickly as possible. But before you make an appointment with a podiatrist, there are a few things you can try at home to manage certain conditions and relieve ankle pain.
Start with the RICE method
RICE stands for rest, ice, compression and elevation. And it’s most effective when used immediately after a minor injury like a sprained ankle to help reduce initial pain, swelling and inflammation.
If your injury is more than a few days old, your doctor may recommend the MEAT treatment method (movement, exercise, analgesia and therapy) as an alternative, or in addition to, RICE.
Use tape or an ankle brace for extra support
Resting your muscles and ligaments can help them heal. Start by wrapping your ankle with athletic tape or a brace for extra stability and support. The compression will help limit ankle movement and take pressure off the injured tissue. This can help reduce swelling after an ankle injury and prevent reinjury. If your ankle pain is severe and makes walking a challenge, a podiatrist might recommend crutches for additional stability and support.
Take medicines to relieve ankle pain and swelling
Anti-inflammatory medications are often used to treat ankle pain and swelling. You can start at home with over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as naproxen or ibuprofen. If the pain persists, your clinician might recommend prescription medications that treat inflammation (corticosteroids).
Strengthen ankles with mobility exercises and stretching
Building up the muscle around your ankles and improving your range of motion can help you avoid injuries that cause ankle pain. A physical therapist can give you stretches and exercises to improve your ankle strength and flexibility.
Talk to your doctor if ankle pain is becoming a problem
If you’re experiencing intense or increasing foot or ankle pain, your symptoms are impacting your daily activities, or you’re simply concerned something’s wrong, it’s time to see a podiatrist. They specialize in all things foot and ankle and can set you up with a treatment plan to help you get relief.