The average runner takes 1,700 steps per mile. Not surprisingly, runners often experience ankle pain. The first thing to do when your ankle hurts, according to experts, is to stop the activity, as continuing to run may make the injury worse. The most common causes of ankle pain include sprains and strains, stress fractures, and tendonitis. A sprained ankle occurs when the ligament in the ankle joint is stretched past its limit. A strained ankle occurs when a muscle or tendon in the joint is similarly overstretched. Stress fractures are tiny, hairline cracks in the bone, usually the result of overuse, such as increasing mileage or intensity too quickly. Tendonitis is the inflammation of a tendon, and the ankle contains a number of them. The most common source of tendonitis is the Achilles tendon in the back of the heel. If you are experiencing ankle pain that impedes your ability to run, please consult a podiatrist who can examine the ankle, determine the cause, and offer treatment options.
Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM from Progressive Podiatry. 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 offices located in Ijamsville and Mouth Airy, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
