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Home » Products tagged “Ankle Pain”

Ankle Pain

Dr. Max Alastair Trotz

Medically reviewed & edited by Dr. Max Trotz,
MBBS (State Examination), MRCP (Edin), DCH

Ankle pain is a problem that affects many people at one time or another. The ankle is a weight bearing joint and there are many possible reasons why someone can feel pain there.

Probably the most common reasons for a painful ankle are an ankle injury such as a sprain or fracture, tendonitis and wear and tear of the joint. Arthritis and diseases that affect the ankle (such as flat feet) are also major contributors to this type of pain.

In this article, we will examine the most common reasons for this pain. For each suggested cause, we will also suggest the symptoms likely to be experienced along with the ankle pain. We will also suggest remedies to try for each of these causes.

We will start by briefly describing the anatomy of the ankle and the role it plays in daily movements. This will help us to better understand the potential reasons for a painful ankle when they occur.

Ankle Anatomy

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The ankle lies at the junction of the lower leg bones (the tibia and the fibula) and the talus (the foot bone).These bones are held together by ligaments. The ankle is responsible for bearing almost all of the body weight of the owner. It also plays a crucial role in standing, maintaining balance and movement (whether walking or running).

To perform all these roles, the ankle needs to be very flexible. It must be capable of movement in several dimensions including pointing (extension), flexion, rotation and side to side movement.

To support this wide range of movements, in addition to the large number of ligaments holding together the tibia, fibula and talus, the ankle contains an intricate structure of muscles, tendons and other soft tissues that help it perform the required movements. This complexity (and its weight bearing role) makes the ankle more susceptible to injury.

Ankle Pain Risk Factors

Ankle pain tends to be most common among the following individuals:

Those over age 65;
Individuals active in sports or who exercise frequently. This is especially true where sports requiring side to side movements or sudden directional changes are involved.
Individuals who jump a lot, including those who do so while playing a sport. Landing from a jump can be very stressful on the ankles, especially if done incorrectly.
Those who are overweight. This increases the daily stress on the ankles from simple activities like walking or even standing. As a result, there is a greater risk of ankle joint damage.

Diagnosis

To diagnose the cause of ankle pain, a doctor may start by discussing the patient’s symptoms in detail. Questions may be asked about what makes the pain and other symptoms more severe.

The doctor may also want to know how the pain started. Was there a specific identifiable instant when it started? If so, what was the patient doing at the time?

The doctor may also ask about previous ankle injuries the patient may have suffered. He or she may also palpate (examine by touch) the ankle to get a precise idea of the location of the pain. During the examination, the doctor will also check for swelling, pain and bruising.

The indication for imaging tests like X rays, CT scans or MRI studies depends on whether there was an injury preceding onset of the pain as well as the location of the pain. These may be requested so the doctor can examine the internal structures of the ankle. Imaging tests will provide a better idea of the damage that may have been done to these structures.

Finally, if there is a possibility of infection, the doctor may request a biopsy (analysis of tissue sample) or blood test for more information.

Ankle Pain Causes

We will now list the most common potential causes of ankle pain. We will also discuss the other symptoms most commonly experienced with each cause. This will provide clues as to what the underlying cause might be for those unfortunate enough to experience ankle joint pain.

Ankle Soft Tissue Injuries

These injuries account for a large proportion of cases of ankle pain. In addition to ankle pain, they can cause swelling and tenderness of the joint, together with reduced range of motion. The pain may be especially severe when you put weight on the joint.

Ankle Bursitis

Ankle bursitis occurs when the fluid filled sacs inside the ankle become irritated and inflamed. The sacs are there to cushion the ankle bones and make movement smooth and painless. In addition to a dull, aching pain, signs of bursitis include redness and swelling.

Ankle Sprains

Sprains occur when the ankle ligaments become stretched or torn. It is usually the result of the ankle rolling forcefully inwards or outwards out of its normal position or overflexion of the joint. Typically, a sprain happens after intense or repetitive exercise and is accompanied by pain, swelling and bruising.

Ankle Tendonitis

Tendons connect ankle muscles to their adjacent bones. Tendonitis occurs when these tendons become irritated and inflamed. It causes pain in the ankle and heel as well as calf pain when standing on tiptoes.

Ankle Fractures

These injuries are caused by broken ankle bones. They may be hairline, simple or even compound. The result of an ankle fracture is usually ankle pain and swelling. The ankle joint may have a mis-shappen appearance if the bones have moved out of position.

Other Causes

These include arthritis, flatfeeet and infection (septic arthritis).

Treatment Of Ankle Soft Tissue Injuries

The standard way of treating these ankle injuries is to rest and protect the joint. Ankle braces or a walking boot may be worn to support the ankle and help prevent over rotation that can stress its ligaments. The patient may also be asked to consider using crutches or a wheelchair while the ankle heals.

The ankle should also be treated with a cold compress for about 20 minutes at a time every 2-3 hours. This will help to reduce swelling and ease the pain.

Pain killers like paracetamol (tylenol) and non-steroidal anti inflammatories like ibuprofen (advil or motrin) or naproxen (aleve) can provide additional pain relief. Compressing and elevating the ankle can also aid blood circulation and promote more rapid healing.For compression, an ankle sleeve may be considered.

Once ankle healing is underway, physical therapy may be useful in restoring joint strength and preparing the ankle for normal activity.

Treatment of Ankle Fractures

To treat an ankle fracture, the joint must be immobilized, usually with a cast. Before doing this, it may be necessary for a surgeon to operate to restore the bones to their correct position so they heal properly. During healing, the patient will need to use crutches or a wheelchair, as it will not be possible to walk while wearing a cast. Showering and bathing with the cast on may require use of a waterproof cast cover such as that from DryPro.

After removal of the cast, it may be necessary to wear a walking boot as the ankle continues healing. Physical therapy to strengthen the joint will again be important in the run up to returning to normal activity.

Ankle Arthritis

There are many types of arthritis that can affect the ankle. Perhaps the most common types are:

Osteoarthritis – a wear and tear form of arthritis;
Rheumatoid arthritis – in which the body’s immune system starts attacking the joint lining;
Gout – a type of arthritis usually caused by excess uric acid in the body. It most typically causes pain near the big toe, but can also affect the remainder of the foot and ankle.

Ankle arthritis pain is usually accompanied by joint stiffness and swelling. In rheumatoid arthritis, the pain may be particularly severe upon awakening in the morning or periods of daytime rest. Joint range of motion will usually be reduced.

Treatment

This depends on the type of arthritis causing the ankle pain.

Osteoarthritis can be managed by physical therapy, pain medications and heat therapy. Ultimately, joint fusion or other surgeries can be attempted to reduce the pain. The surgery sometimes consists of joint replacement. This is usually reserved for patients from at least 55 to 60 years of age.

For rheumatoid arthritis, the treatment may also utilize pain killers and physical therapy. However, there are also several drugs designed to fight inflammation and suppress the immune system. These drugs include disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs like methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine. They alter the course of the disease, but do not lead to a complete cure.

Gout is manageable through changes in diet and other lifestyle factors. Some patients benefit from drugs which lower the levels of uric acid in the blood.

For all types of arthritis, weight reduction will reduce the stress on the ankle and so limit joint pain.

Flat Feet

This is caused by flattened foot arches. In some cases, this is in turn traceable to injury to the achilles tendon that connects to the heel bone.

In addition to foot and ankle pain, flat feet can sometimes cause leg cramps and muscle pain in the lower legs. Patients may also experience toe drift, in which the front portion of the feet as well as the toes start pointing outwards.

Treatment

Generally speaking, this condition is treatable using:

Painkillers as well as rest and cold therapy;
Physical therapy to stretch tight foot tendons and muscles;
Foot orthotics, ie inserts (either custom made or off the shelf) or custom shoes. Orthotics support and stabilize the foot while ensuring proper alignment.

Infection

Infections, whether of the bone or skin, can cause pain and swelling in the ankle. As a result of the infection, inflammation fluid (pus) can also be present.

Treatment

Treatment for an ankle infection will probably include:

Aspirating the joint (by inserting a needle to remove inflammation fluid) to reduce the pain and swelling;
Taking antibiotics to kill the bacteria causing the infection (can be given by mouth but sometimes administration into the vein is necessary).

Suggested Ankle Pain Products

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Brand

BioSkin®(4)
Darco(1)
DJO(1)
- Aircast(1)
DynaPro Health(1)
Kego Corporation(1)
McDavid®(3)
Mueller® Sports Medicine(2)

Product Category

Hot & Cold Therapy(3)
- Cold Compression(2)
- Hot / Cold Compress(1)
Orthopedic Bracing & Support(9)
- Ankle Brace(7)
  - Ankle Brace with Straps(4)
  - Ankle Sleeve(3)
- Walking Boot(2)
Clinic Equipment & Supplies(1)
- Mobility/Independent Living(1)

Price Range

In Stock
4 Way Stretch Ankle Support
Ankle Sleeve
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In Stock
The Mueller 4 Way Stretch Ankle Support uses 360 degree compression from its no seam knit material to treat ankle pain and swelling.
- Provides round the clock ankle support and comfort that allows you to continute your active lifestyile with less pain and discomfort;
- No seam knit that will not scrape or damage the skin;
- Uniform 4 way stretch material that applies support to the entire joint;
- Also helps keep the ankle warm and supple, improving blood circulation and reducing joint stiffness;
- Can be used to treat injured, sore, weak, unstable or arthritic ankles.
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Active Comfort Compression Ankle Sleeve
Ankle Sleeve
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The McDavid Active Comfort Compression Ankle Sleeve combines use of tech print technology and an ultra lightweight compression to offer superb compression, support and comfort in a ground breaking ankle sleeve.
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In Stock

AFTR Ankle Brace
Ankle Brace with Straps
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In Stock
AFTR Ankle and Foot Trauma Rehabilitation
The BioSkin AFTR provides compression and stabilization following ankle sprains, other ankle injuries, and foot or ankle surgeries. The AFTR is made from material which is thin and breathable and contours perfectly to the anatomy of the ankle, providing excellent compression to remove swelling, decrease pain, and speed recovery.
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In Stock

Air Traveler
Walking Boot
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In Stock
The Darco Air Traveler™ walker boot features a circumferential air bladder, an inflation/deflation system and a five way strapping system that offers the ideal balance between comfort and support. The low profile sole permits the patient to maintain a normal stride pattern while wearing the boot.
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In Stock

Cold & Hot Reusable Compress
Hot / Cold Compress
Rated 5.00 out of 5

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In Stock
The DynaPro Reusable Hot/Cold Pack is a versatile non-toxic compress that you can use for both hot and cold therapies and for treatment of both acute and chronic injuries.
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Cryo Cuff For Rapid Pain Relief
Cold Compression
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Typically Ships in 3-5 Business Days
The Cryo Cuff Cold Therapy Machine from Aircast has everything you need to ease your pain, reduce swelling and inflammation and get you back on your feet as quickly as possible. The unit offers controlled cooling with compression for your knee, shoulder, back, ankle and calf and you can choose between gravity and IC powered Coolers.
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Elite Engineered Elastic Ankle Brace w/Figure-6 Strap & Stays
Ankle Brace with Straps
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Typically Ships in 3-5 Business Days
With its high quality elastic construction and Figure-6 strap system, the McDavid Elite Engineered Elastic Ankle Brace offers a combination of support and comfort that will amaze your patients.
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In Stock

Pneumatic Walking Boot
Walking Boot
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In Stock
The Bio Skin Pneumatic Walking Boot provides post-surgical immobilization of the foot and ankle. It also decreases pain and protects the foot for enhanced rehabilitation.
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In Stock

Standard Ankle Skin
Ankle Sleeve
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In Stock
The Bio Skin Standard Ankle Skin is an all-purpose ankle support that provides compression, added stability and increased proprioception.
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In Stock

The ONE Ankle Brace Premium
Ankle Brace with Straps
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In Stock
The Mueller Sports Medicine The One Ankle Brace Premium features a speed lacing system, figure 8 strapping pattern and a Comfort Band surrounding the plantar fascia and arch areas. Replaces the MU4664x ankle brace (The One Ankle Brace).
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TriLok Ankle Brace
Ankle Brace with Straps
Rated 5.00 out of 5

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In Stock
For Ankle Sprains, PTTD, and Plantar Fasciitis
The Bio Skin TriLok has unparalleled versatility, delivering targeted unloading to medial and lateral structures.
- Positioned laterally, the FootLok™ Strap supports and protects the lateral ligaments and the peroneal tendons;
- Positioned medially, the FootLok Strap supports the plantar fascia or the posterior tibial tendon. No other brace offers such versatility;
- The included Stirrup strap provides superior lateral stability and relieves pressure on weak or injured ankle ligaments and tendons;
- The low profile and ultra comfortable TriLok is effective with almost any type of footwear or with no footwear at all;
- Made from BioSkin’s patented and highly breathable Ultima 2SL material;
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True Ice Therapy Ankle Wrap
Cold Compression
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Typically Ships in 3-5 Business Days
The McDavid True Ice Therapy Ankle Wrap combines the benefits of compression and cold therapy to produce a more effective treatment of both acute and overuse ankle injuries.
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In Stock

Walking Crutches (Pair)
Mobility/Independent Living
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In Stock
Made of lightweight aluminum with a comfortable and durable underarm pad as well as a hand grip. Available in different sizes based on height.
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