A variety of injuries and conditions can cause ankle pain, ranging from annoying to serious. Many can be treated at home, but some more serious conditions will require medical attention. Always consult your local Queens healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. At Best Foot Doctor NY we offer personalized attention for all causes and treatments of ankle pain.
Causes of ankle pain
Causes of ankle pain include the following
- Inflammation
- Fractures
- Gout
- Arthritis
Inflammation
Inflammation is characterized by redness, pain, swelling, and tenderness at the affected site. As the inflammation worsens, you can also spike a fever. If you think you have a worsening infection, contact your local Queens doctor immediately.
Read more in our blog: Ankle Sprains: Causes, Treatments, and Rehab Exercises in Queens, NYC
Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis is inflammation of the Achilles tendon located at the back of the ankle. This can be caused by stress, overuse, low arches, inadequate arch support, and other stressors. It is treated with rest, ice, over-the-counter pain medications, and physical therapy. In severe cases, tendonitis requires laser treatment or surgery.
Bursitis
Joints are surrounded by a protective sac of fluid known as bursae. Inflammation of a bursa is called bursitis. Symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, and stiffness and usually occur with repetitive movements. Most episodes will resolve with rest, stretching, and cushioning the affected joint; however, acute bursitis may also need corticosteroid injections or even surgery.
Plantar fasciitis
Pain on the bottom of your foot, close to the heel, may be an indication of plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a tissue that connects the heel bone to the toe bones and it can become inflamed after long periods of standing or worsen overnight if the fascia is stretched abnormally. Doctors at Best Foot Doctor NY in Queens recommend home treatments such as moderate pain medications and ice, but if needed they will also suggest physical therapy, and night splints or shoe inserts for support.
Fracture
Fractures are often diagnosed with an x-ray and characterized by pain, swelling, deformity, and inability to bear weight on the affected extremity. While not every fracture requires surgery, it can be serious even if an obvious deformity is not present. Often a fracture is treated with rest, stabilization, and physical therapy.
Gout
Gout is a severely painful condition caused by a buildup of urate crystals in the joint of the big toe. Insufficient filtration or excessive production of uric acid results in urate crystals. Diet (especially alcohol, red meats, and high sugar content), medications (some diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and beta-blockers), and family history can contribute to gout. Sometimes over-the-counter pain medication will help, but most people will need stronger gout-specific medications. If you suspect you have gout, contact your Queens doctor immediately.
Arthritis
Another source of joint pain is arthritis. There are several kinds of arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It results in a painful wearing down of the joint and surrounding tissue. Arthritis is often chronic and progressive. Swelling, decreased range of motion, and pain are common. Physical therapy, medications, steroid injections, and some surgeries may help to retard the progression of arthritis.
Conclusion
In your ankle pain, reach out to Best Foot Doctor NY for a diagnosis and treatment options that are right for you. We are ready to help patients in Queens and beyond to move from acute or chronic ankle pain to a stronger, more health-filled lifestyle.