Ankle pain is any type of pain or discomfort that affects any part of the ankle. Ankle pain usually occurs as a result of a sprain. A sprain is an injury that affects the ligaments which connect the ankle bones.
One of the most complex parts of the body is the ankle and it is where the tibia and fibula leg bones meet with the talus foot bone. These bones are connected to each other by the ligament and thereby give way for movement. Because of this complexity, the ankle is particularly susceptible to injury.
What are the Causes of Ankle Pain?
The most common cause of ankle pain is a sprain and it can occur as a result of the following:
• Arthritis (specifically osteoarthritis).
• Gout.
• Nerve damage or injury, such as sciatica.
• Blocked blood vessels.
• Infection in the joint.
1. A sprain usually occurs as a result of rolling and twisting of the ankle this makes the ankle that is located outside to move toward the ground, which tears the ligaments of the ankle which hold the bones together. When the ankle is rolled, it can result in damage to the cartilage or tendons of the ankle.
2. Gout occurs as a result of the accumulation of uric acid in the body. When the uric acid concentration is greater than normal, it results in the deposition of crystals in the joint thereby causing acute pain.
3. Pseudogout. This occurs as a result of the accumulation of calcium deposit in the joint. This is similar to gout and the symptoms of both conditions include pain, swelling, and redness.
4. Arthritis. This is the inflammation of the joint and it has also been found to be one of the causes of ankle pain.
5. Lupus. Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease; this means that the immune system creates antibodies which attack healthy tissue, including joints, skin, heart, lungs, and kidneys. In some individuals with lupus, arthritis affects the ankles. However, ankle swelling can be a sign of kidney damage.
6. Psoriatic arthritis. This is a form of arthritis which is followed by skin diseases known as psoriasis. Skin disease often paves the way for arthritis; in a small percentage of cases, joint disease develops before skin disease. Psoriatic arthritis usually involves the ankle.
7. Infectious arthritis. This is also referred to as known as septic arthritis. This type of arthritis means that the occurrence of arthritis is due to infection within the joint. Infectious arthritis is caused by bacteria which spread through the bloodstream to the joint. It can also be caused by viruses or fungi and it has been found to impact the joint. If left untreated, this infection can cause joint destruction.
Several types of arthritis can cause ankle pain, but the most common cause of ankle pain is osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis usually occurs as a result of wear and tear on the joints. Osteoarthritis commonly affects elderly individuals.
What are the Symptoms of Ankle Pain?
Below are some of the common symptoms of ankle pain, though it varies ranging from intermittent pain to intense pain:
• Swelling of the ankle.
• Redness.
• Bruising.
• Numbness or tingling sensation.
• Inability to bear weight on the ankle.
• Stiffness.
Ankle Pain Treatment
Treatment for Ankle Pain requires restoring the circulation and blood flow to the affected structures in your ankle. Pain is caused when swelling, inflammation and decreased circulation generate a blockage, which causes blood flow to be interrupted or slowed. Treatment for this issue requires breaking up the accumulated fluids in your ankle to allow for improved healing and quicker recovery.
Products recommended for symptoms of swelling, redness, pain, and inflammation, and if coolness makes your pain feel better:
Ice Substitute Poultice
Bruise Relief Liniment
Muscle Therapy Massage Oil
Products recommended when swelling and inflammation are gone, but you still feel pain, stiffness, weakness, and/or sensitivity in cold and damp weather, and if heat makes your pain feel better:
Pain Relief Liniment
Tendon and Ligament Poultice
Muscle Therapy Massage Oil
