Ankle pain is a common problem that many people suffer from. The pain can come from an ankle sprain or even arthritis which causes inflammation in the foot and ankle joint. Often, it occurs when walking, but some individuals only feel the pain when they are standing still. Others complain about having to sleep with their leg up because their ankle has swollen to the point that it is painful to keep it down. Ankle pain can be caused by various things ranging from sprains, arthritis, or even gout. This article aims to address some of the different causes of ankle pain that may require treatment from a Portland ankle pain specialist.
1. Sprains
They are most common among athletes. Any time an unusual force is placed upon the ankle, the ligaments are stretched beyond what they can handle. This causes swelling and pain around the ankle with bruising up into the calf. If not allowed to heal correctly with rest and ice, it can develop into chronic pain in which you have trouble walking.
2. Arthritis
This is a common problem. It occurs when the cartilage between the bones of your ankle wears away. The bones begin to rub against each other, causing pain and swelling in the joint. Other symptoms include stiffness, warmth, and redness around the area, lasting for hours or even days. You may need to use a cane or crutches to get around in certain cases.
3. Gout
This disease occurs when the chemicals in your body cause a buildup of uric acid. As it starts to build up around your joints, it causes redness and swelling within the soft tissue of an ankle. It generally happens on one side with pain that can be unbearable at times. If left untreated, you may suffer from permanent damage to your ankle, which may require surgery.
4. Injury
These are common among individuals who work on their feet all day. They may have to do a lot of walking, leading to ankle pain from the stress put on your foot and ankle joint. In some cases, they may feel burning or tingling in their toes and pain and swelling within the ankle itself.
5. Fractures
This problem generally happens due to a direct blow to the foot through sports activities or accidents. The pain is immediate, with swelling and bruising within the fracture area, which may make standing difficult. If your ankle begins to turn purple or red, it can indicate that you have broken bones in your foot that require medical attention.
6. Metabolic Disorders
Those who suffer from diabetes or high blood pressure often complain of ankle pain. In some cases, the ankles may also swell up, which can be a symptom of kidney problems. You should always consult with your physician for proper diagnoses and treatment to avoid further damage to your foot.
In summary, ankle pain can result from a variety of different problems. You should always seek treatment from a doctor before the pain becomes so severe that you cannot walk or stand. If left untreated, it may cause permanent damage to your foot and ankle, which can require extensive surgery down the road.
