Top 4 Causes of Ankle Pain

Our ankles are one of the most sensitive areas of our bodies. Most people have probably experienced ankle pain at least once in their lives. It isn’t always easy to identify exactly what’s causing that sharp sting or dull ache in your ankle, however. That’s where your Austin foot and ankle doctor, Jeffery LaMour, comes in. Our experienced, knowledgeable team is happy to help you diagnose and treat any podiatric issue so you can enjoy healthy feet. In this week’s blog, we cover the top four causes of ankle pain, so you can prevent, spot, and treat them.

1. Achilles Tendon Conditions

In the Greek legend, a man named Achilles was completely invulnerable, except for a single spot on his heel. Many modern Americans deal with the same difficult area. The so-called “Achilles tendon” spans from the bottom of he heel up through the calf. Disorders having to due with this tissue often cause ankle pain. Athletes sometimes struggle with Achilles tendinitis, damage and aching due to overuse. A more advanced version of this injury is Achilles tendon rupture. According to Mayo Clinic, this occurs when the “strong fibrous cord that connects the muscles in the back of your calf to your heel bone” tears, or ruptures, “completely or just partially.” Ankle pain is a symptom of both conditions, as well as other injuries relating to the Achilles tendon.

2. Fracture

The ankle is the meeting place of three major bones: the talus, tibia, and fibula. If any one of these breaks, you may experience ankle pain. More severe fractures may be obvious, but if you’re suffering from persistent discomfort and can’t figure out why, you may have a smaller, hairline break in one of these bones around your ankle.

3. Arthritis

Although there are many kinds of arthritis, the vast majority of them can cause ankle pain. The Arthritis Foundation explains: “actually, ‘arthritis’ is not a single disease; it is an informal way of referring to joint pain or joint disease,” and notes: “more than 50 million adults and 300,000 children have some type of arthritis,” making it quite common, regrettably. Since the ankle is a crucial, and often especially sensitive, joint, it is often affected by arthritic conditions. Ankle pain could be a sign that this joint has begun to break down, swell, become infected, or suffer from some other sort of disorder.

4. Sprain

WebMD reports: “Every day in the U.S., 25,000 people sprain their ankle.” This type of injury is so common that patients tend to label virtually any kind of ankle pain a “sprain,” but it does have a more specific, exact definition. Mayo Clinic defines it: “a sprained ankle is an injury that occurs when you roll, twist, or turn your ankle in an awkward way. This can stretch or tear the tougher bands of tissue (ligaments) that help hold your ankle bones together.” Chances are, if you’re dealing with ankle pain, you’ve suffered a sprain. However, since the ankle is a delicate joint and there are many potential causes, it’s important to get it checked out by a foot and ankle doctor like Jeffery LaMour. In addition, a simple sprain could lead to further complications if not appropriately addressed.

Dr. LaMour Can Assist with Your Ankles

Of course, it’s possible that the cause of your particular ankle pain isn’t on this list. If you’re experiencing discomfort at this joint, we strongly recommend you come in for an appointment at our Austin practice. Dr. LaMour will conduct a thorough examination of your ankle, perform any necessary diagnostic tests, pinpoint the source of your discomfort, and provide a customized treatment plan designed just for you.

Do You Suffer from Ankle Pain?

We can help you understand why and provide the treatment you need to find relief. Contact your Austin foot and ankle doctor today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to meeting you!