Ankle Pain

When ankle pain is the result of arthritis, the injury cannot be completely treated. However, there are ways to manage it. The following may help:

• Use topical pain relievers
• Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation
• Keep your body active and follow a fitness program that focuses on moderate exercise
• Practice a healthy diet
• Ensure joint range of motion by stretching
• Keep your weight in a healthy range and reduce the stress on your joints

How common is ankle pain?

Ankle pain and ankle injuries are very common. If:

• I am over 65 years old.
• Exercise or participate in activities that involve jumping, side-to-side movements, or sudden turns.
• Overweight/Obese

How do healthcare providers determine the cause of ankle pain?

Your provider will examine your ankles and feet. Your provider will check for swelling, pain, and bruising. The test depends on where the pain is and whether you have had a recent injury. Your health care provider may order imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans. These tests create images of bone and soft tissue so providers can see any damage.

If your doctor determines that you have an infection, a biopsy may be needed. A healthcare provider takes a sample of the tissue and sends it to a lab to check for bacteria.

Contact Houston Spine & Joint Pain Consultants in Texas if you are experiencing any symptoms stated above.

How do health care providers treat ankle pain?

Most ankle injuries heal with home care. More severe injuries may require surgery. Treatment depends on the cause of ankle pain. Common treatments for ankle pain include:

• Braces and Splints: Ankle braces help relieve pain and stabilize the ankle. Some braces are suitable for specific activities. Ask your service provider to recommend the best method for your lifestyle.
• Joint aspiration: In this procedure, a healthcare provider inserts a needle into the joint to remove excess fluid. Joint suction relieves pain and swelling.
• Medications: Several medications can reduce inflammation and relieve ankle pain. Arthritis and gout medications can greatly reduce pain and swelling.
• Orthotic inserts: Orthotics are inserts that are placed in shoes. It can be purchased at a store or custom made for your foot by a provider. The insole supports and stabilizes the foot to ensure proper alignment.
• Physical therapy (PT): A customized PT program can help improve flexibility and strengthen the muscles that support the ankle. Your physical therapist will create a PT program with exercises and stretches designed for you. Do regular exercises and stretching exercises.
• Steroid injection: A healthcare provider uses a needle to inject an anti-inflammatory medication directly into the joint. Cortisone injection reduces inflammation and pain.
• Surgery: Various ankle surgeries can repair torn ligaments and tendons. Some options relieve arthritis pain or correct the flatness of the soles of the feet. Ankle replacement surgery can relieve pain and restore function.

When to consult a doctor

While most ankle sprains heal with a little TLC and at-home care, it’s important to know when the injury has progressed past that point.

Those who experience extreme swelling or bruising, along with the inability to put weight or pressure on the area without significant pain, should consult a doctor.

Another general rule is to seek medication attention if there’s been no improvement during the first few days.

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