The ankle is a complex system of bones, tendons, and muscles that connect the leg and the foot. If any one of those elements is compromised, it may result in pain whenever you take a step. If you spend a lot of time running, walking or jumping, some type of pain in the ankle is not uncommon. Most ankle pain is the result of an injury to a muscle, tendon, or ligament. Ankle pain may also be caused by medical conditions, including arthritis, gout, or peripheral neuropathy. An injury, such as a ligament sprain, a muscle strain, or a fractured bone, will likely cause ankle pain and inhibit your ability to walk normally. Pain in the back of the ankle may be connected to an injury of the Achilles tendon. This can become torn, ruptured or inflamed, and severe cases may prevent you from putting any weight on the foot. If you are experiencing ankle pain when you walk, it is a good idea to consult a podiatrist for an exam and a diagnosis. An appropriate treatment plan can then be put into action. 

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Gordon Fosdick from Affiliated Foot Care Center. 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
• Bursitis
• 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 Middlefield and Wallingford, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.