Ankle Pain

Ankle Sprains and Strains

The definitions of sprains and strains are similar, and both tend to result in pain and swelling. A sprain is the stretching or tearing of a ligament, which connects bone to bone; astrain is a tear to a tendon or muscle. Sprains to the ankle - a major load-bearing joint - are extremely common, and are often caused by "turning" the ankle when walking or running, sudden or abrupt movements or from contact while playing sports.

Acute ankle strains result from activities that cause the muscles to suddenly stretch or contract; chronic strains re more typically the result of overuse. Be sure to determine what caused the sprain/strain and discontinue that activity - and be seen by a Health Care Professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

The R.I.C.E. protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) is often recommended immediately after sustaining a mild to moderate sprain or strain, perhaps accompanied by an anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen. But if the sprain or strain is more serious, your Health Care Professional may prescribe immobilizing the ankle with a splint or brace.

Once injured, the ankle is prone to re-injury. But you can help reduce your risk of injury (or of re-injury) of sprains and strains by committing to an overall physical conditioning program that includes stretching and strengthening and stability exercises for the ankle and by maintaining your ideal weight. It pays to pace oneself, building up to participating in new activities (or getting back to favorite sports you haven't participated in recently). It is often suggested that you apply a moderate amount of heat before exercising, to relax the muscles.

This is where the "P" for protection comes into the emerging P.R.I.C.E. protocol. Protect your ankles while healing from an injury, and for some time afterwards by supporting the injured joint with a brace, wrap, support or bandaging. And wear proper shoes for your activities, whether you're a runner, walker, or participate in any high impact activity.

Weak and Unstable Ankle

Weak and unstable ankles may be caused by various factors: repeated sprains or, a break that has not healed properly, various forms of arthritis, prolonged periods of inactivity with loss of muscle tone, poor circulation and other causes.

The use of wraps, braces or splints is often recommended to provide protection and support for weak and unstable ankles. When physically possible for the individual, a physical conditioning program designed to strengthen the muscles surrounding the ankle is often recommended.

Arthritis of the Ankle

Of the several varieties of arthritis - or inflammation of the joints - osteoarthritis is the most common. It is characterized by the degeneration of the cartilage of the joint, and is often caused by wear and tear over time. There are over 100 different kinds of arthritis, including rheumatoid, psoriatic, and arthritis caused by infection. And rheumatoid arthritis not uncommonly affects the ankles, causing weakness to this important, load-bearing joint.

When arthritis occurs in the ankle, the primary treatment goal is to alleviate pain in order to help you remain active, helping to slow the progression of the disease. Always consult your Health Care Professional for a proper diagnosis, treatment and pain management recommendations.

If you are under the supervision of a Health Care Professional, you are probably engaged in exercises designed to flex your ankles and toes and strengthen the calf and ankle muscles. And it will likely be suggested that you wear a wrap, brace or a splint to support and protect your ankle.

Preventive Protection

If you've ever injured your ankle, you probably know what a nuisance it can be to getting around the way you'd like to. Once injured, the ankle is prone to re-injury, so a little protection from a wrap or brace can go a long way to supporting your ankle so that it can support the rest of you when you travel, walk long distances, play sports or will be on your feet for a long period of time. Warm up your ankle muscles before activity, and choose proper footwear for the activity you'll be engaged in. Orthotics can also help correctly position your feet and, therefore, your ankles.

Rehab Support

Anyone who has sustained a major ankle injury, has undergone ankle surgery or deals with major arthritis of the ankle will almost certainly wind up in a rehab program of exercises specifically designed to bring the ankle back to health. Since the ankle is the most major of the load-bearing joints, and is required for walking, standing, running and many daily activities, it is well worth full participation.

Health Care Professionals and athletic trainers will likely prescribe the use of ankle braces, splints and orthotics, as well as recommend proper footwear. And may suggest the use of heat to warm the muscles before exercise