What are the signs of an ankle injury?
Ankle injuries most often cause pain on the inside and outside of the ankles, though pain can also be accompanied by:
- Swelling and bruising
- Tenderness to touch
- Difficulty bearing weight or limping
- Decreased range of motion
- Trouble pointing and flexing the toes
- Shin and/or foot pain
While less common, severe ankle injuries can also cause numbness, tingling, or a cold sensation in the feet if the nerves or blood vessels in the area are injured.
What causes ankle pain?
Ankle pain often occurs when you roll your ankle inward or outward, causing a sprain of the ligaments in the ankle. Other potential ankle injuries include:
- Medial and lateral ankle sprains
- High ankle sprains
- Stress fractures
- Tendinitis
- Compartment syndrome
- Achilles tendinitis
- Tibialis tendinitis
- Peroneal nerve entrapment
Since there are many small bones, muscles, and ligaments in the feet and ankles, it’s possible that your ankle injury can also cause pain in your foot or lower leg. The team evaluates all the areas you’re experiencing pain to fully understand your condition and provide an accurate diagnosis.
How is ankle pain diagnosed?
Ankle pain diagnosis involves a thorough consultation and exam. The team asks if you know what caused your injury, like stepping wrong or rolling your ankle, and what symptoms you’re experiencing. Next, they examine your ankle for signs of injury and measure your range of motion and muscle strength.
The team then performs an orthopedic exam to assess the joints, ligaments, and muscles in and around your ankle to determine if anything is damaged. In cases of suspected fractures or complications, the team refers you for X-rays or an MRI. Based on their findings, they explain your diagnosis and how they can help your ankle heal.
How is ankle pain treated?
Treatment for ankle pain varies depending on your diagnosis and the severity of your pain. For minor injuries without complications, conservative care includes:
- Chiropractic adjustments
- Physical rehabilitation
- Hot and cold therapy
- Cold laser therapy
- Athletic taping or bracing
- Orthotics
- Gait and balance training
If conservative care isn’t enough or you’re recovering from a more severe injury, the team can recommend:
- Stem cell therapy
- Trigger point injections
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)
The team also provides referrals to orthopedic surgeons if you require additional care, such as casting or surgery for fractures.
Get your ankle examined and treated at White Integrated Health Clinics by booking an appointment online or calling the office now.
