Why Does My Ankle Hurt?

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It’s pretty obvious, there are a wide variety of reasons why your ankle could hurt. However, there are some more common reasons than others. For instance, a sprained ankle is a very common ankle pain reason. In fact, every day in the United States, 25,000 people sprain their ankle.

Top Reasons for Ankle Pain

If you any injure an ankle bone, ligament or tendon and many types of arthritis can cause ankle pain. So, how do we pinpoint what type of pain you’re experiencing? Below, you will find 10 top reasons for ankle pain and what symptoms come with the conditions.

Please note, any injury should be diagnosed by a physician or podiatrist. This should not be taken in place of.

Ankle Sprain or Strain

This type of injury is damage to the soft tissue. An ankle sprain and strain can both cause major pain and discomfort. However, depending on the severity will determine the ankle pain level.

When an ankle sprain occurs, it is done by stretching or tearing the ligament. The tear can vary from a partial to complete tear.

Now, with an ankle strain, this is an injury to the muscle or tendon. A strain can range from a overstretch to a complete tear.

Since the ankle is a complex joint, strains and sprains are common. These injuries tend to be common since we tend to move a lot during the day.

Although two different injuries, an ankle sprain and strain both have similar symptoms, such as:

• Snapping sound
• Popping sound
• Ankle joint instability
• Swelling & tenderness

Ankle Fracture

When you fracture your ankle it refers to a break of one or more of the ankle bones. These bones include the fibula or tibia. An ankle fracture can occur one of two ways, a clean break or a break into small pieces.

Either way, the symptoms are similar, such as:

• Radiating pain throughout the lower leg
• Foot/ankle swelling
• Blister
• Difficulty walking and moving the foot
• A broken bone pushing against the skin

Achilles Tendon Rupture

When the achilles tendon is overstretched while running or exercising, or even after a fall, a rupture can occur. As a matter of fact, taking a corticosteroid or certain antibiotics have been known to increase the risk of an achilles tendon rupture.

Symptoms of an achilles tendon rupture include the following:

• Reduced range of motion
• Sudden calf or ankle pain
• Back of the leg or ankle swelling
• Popping or snapping sensation
• Issues standing on tiptoes or walking upstairs

Also see, Treating Achilles Tendon Pain

Gout

Gout is a type of arthritis. It occurs from a buildup of uric acid crystals. Most commonly, gout affects the foot and ankle.

Regardless of the location, gout symptoms are similar, such as:

• Worsened pain at night or immediately after awaking
• Swollen ankle
• Warmth over the ankle joint

Infection

When trauma occurs it can allow bacteria to enter the skin or joint and cause an infection of the ankle. Furthermore, when undergoing a surgical procedure or a previous cut also have a risk for infection too.

Symptoms of an infection, such as:

• Fever
• Pain
• Redness
• Warmth
• Swelling
• Fatigue

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage of the ankle wears down. Thereafter, bones will rub together, leading to instability of the ankle joints and ankle pain.

Additional ankle osteoarthritis symptoms are as follows:

• Bony ankle joint growth
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Trouble walking
• Difficulty bending ankle

Also see, Foot & Ankle Arthritis

Although each condition has it’s own signs and symptoms, it’s always important for a doctor to diagnose an injury or condition. A physician can create a specific treatment plan geared towards your recovery.

If you are searching for a top foot doctor in South Florida, call us at 888-409-8006. Offices conveniently located throughout Palm Beach and Broward County.