Why Does My Ankle Hurt?

If your ankle hurts, chances are pretty good that you know why. Most pain is caused by injury. However, not all of it is.

Obvious

Injuries: Sprains, strains and fractures are the most common sources of pain. The severity of the injury will dictate treatment, but many times it can be treated at home. If the pain is severe, there is an obvious injury or home treatments aren’t effective, a trip to the doctor may be necessary. The same is true if a fracture is suspected.

RICE is the treatment of choice, though usually an NSAID is also recommended. RICE stands for rest, ice, compression and elevation. An ankle brace or an Ace bandage are often suggested for the compression. The brace is often the better choice, as it is hard to get the brace too tight.

Stings and Bites: The reason this isn’t under injury is because the treatment is not the same. A bee sting or an infected bite can also cause pain. If you’ve ever stepped on a bee while barefoot, you probably remember it well.

Some people are allergic to these stings, and will require either a doctor’s care or a visit to the emergency room, depending on the severity. For the rest, make a paste of baking soda and water and place it on the sting or bite. This can help draw out some of the poison and ease the pain. If it swells up, keep it propped up and use ice. Compression is rarely needed for this problem.

Not so Obvious

Arthritis: Age and injury can cause damage to any joint and the ankle is one of them. The only outward signs are pain and swelling, and it will take a doctor to diagnose it. Options will depend on the severity of the problem, but may include low impact exercise, NSAIDs, among other things.

Gout: This generally affects the big toe, but the pain can radiate into other parts of the foot. It is fairly easy to diagnose; the pain is incredible and other signs will be present. Cherry juice and some prescription medications can help stop the flare up and reduce the chances more will occur. Diet and lifestyle changes may also be necessary.

Shoes: Yes, shoes. High heels, shoes that are too narrow and lack of ankle support can all lead to pain and swelling in said joint. They’re hard to find, but to end the pain and prevent injury or joint damage, you may need to find shoes that fit properly, aren’t high heeled and provide proper support.

Tendinitis: I am currently sitting with my ankle propped up and snugly wrapped in a brace. I don’t know how it happened, but I have tendonitis in my right ankle. One thing that may be a tip off to you is lumps along the tendon.

Like other problems, it is best to get it diagnosed by your doctor. If healing doesn’t take place in a timely manner, you may require an x-ray or MRI to find out how severe the problem is. As with an injury, RICE is a good plan.

Weight Issues: Joints can only take so much in the weight department. Those of us who weigh more than we should are at risk for many of the above problems. Getting rid of or avoiding ankle pain is a good reason to start doing something about it.

Ankle pain can make movement difficult. If your ankle is hurting, there’s a good chance you need to see your doctor to find out why. Once you have a diagnosis, you can make a plan to get rid of the pain.


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