Common Causes of Ankle Pain

Ankle pain can develop from several conditions that affect the bones, ligaments, and tendons surrounding the joint. An Achilles tendon injury often causes pain at the back of the ankle, especially during movement or after activity. Fractures involve a break in one of the ankle bones and may appear with severe pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. Sprains occur when ligaments are stretched or torn, while strains affect muscles or tendons, both leading to discomfort and instability. Risk factors include sports activity, uneven surfaces, wearing poor footwear, and sudden changes in movement. Symptoms may vary, but often include swelling, bruising, and limited motion. A podiatrist can determine the exact cause through examination and imaging, then guide treatment to restore strength and function. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat the problem.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

  • Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
  • Ankle sprains
  • Broken ankles
  • Achilles tendonitis
  • Achilles tendon rupture
  • Stress fractures
  • Bursitis
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Wesley Chapel, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Ankle Pain

What Happens During an Ankle Sprain

An ankle sprain is an injury that occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn. It often happens during a sudden twist, misstep, or awkward landing that forces the joint out of its normal position. This condition may appear with swelling, bruising, tenderness, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. Some people feel instability or a popping sensation at the time of injury. While sprains can range from mild to severe, proper evaluation is important to rule out fractures or long-term damage. A podiatrist can assess the severity through a physical examination and imaging tests, then guide treatment to support healing and restore stability. Early care helps prevent chronic weakness or repeated injury.  If you have symptoms of an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Mild to moderate bruising
  • Limited mobility
  • Swelling
  • Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Wesley Chapel, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Three Grades of Ankle Sprains

What Can Cause Morton’s Neuroma?

There are numerous nerves that are located in each foot. Morton’s neuroma can occur when a nerve in the ball of the foot becomes swollen, and may gradually become inflamed. Common symptoms that many patients experience can include a sharp or burning pain that is often felt between the third and fourth toes. It can be caused by wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely. It is beneficial to refrain from activities that put pressure on the toes, and the affected foot may feel better when it is massaged and frequently elevated. If you have this condition, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

  • Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
  • Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
  • Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Wesley Chapel, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about What is Morton's Neuroma?

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

scroll to top