What is ankle pain?
Ankle pain refers to any kind of pain or discomfort affecting any part of the ankle. Ankle pain can happen for many reasons. The most common causes include injury, arthritis and normal wear and tear. Depending on the cause, you may feel pain or stiffness anywhere around the ankle. Your ankle may also swell, and you may not be able to put any weight on it.
Usually, ankle pain gets better with rest, ice and over-the-counter pain medications. Healthcare providers can treat injuries and arthritis. Often times, conditions can be treated without surgery. However if the injury is severe, such as a broken ankle bone, or when your ankle pain fails to improve with nonsurgical treatment, surgery is needed. If you’ve had an ankle injury or surgery, a physical therapy (PT) plan can also help you heal. PT strengthens the muscles that support your feet and ankles. The therapy can relieve pain and prevent future injuries.
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What are the parts of the ankle?
Your ankles are part of the musculoskeletal system. They support your body’s weight and help you stand, balance and move. The flexible ankle joint allows you to point, flex, rotate and move your foot from side to side.
The lower leg bones (tibia and fibula) come together to meet the foot bone (talus) to form the ankle. Ligaments hold these bones together. A complex structure of tendons, muscles and other soft tissues allows the foot and ankle to move. The ankle is especially prone to injury because of this complexity.
How common is ankle pain?
Ankle pain and ankle injuries are very common. You’re more likely to have ankle pain if you:
- Are over age 65.
- Play sports or do activities that involve jumping, side-to-side movements or quick changes in direction.
- Have overweight/obesity.
