Sudden ankle pain without an obvious injury can occur for a variety of reasons. Among them are arthritis, autoimmune diseases, and structural issues in the foot. Osteoarthritis can develop over time due to ankle joint wear, while rheumatoid arthritis and lupus may cause inflammation in both ankles. Reactive arthritis, which may be triggered by an infection, can lead to joint pain and swelling. Gout, an inflammatory condition caused by excess uric acid, may produce sudden and intense pain in the ankle joint. Flat feet, or posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, may also strain the ankle, leading to discomfort and instability. Bursitis, an inflammation of fluid-filled sacs near the ankle joint, can cause swelling and tenderness. A chiropodist can assess the underlying cause of your ankle pain, provide guidance on supportive footwear, recommend custom orthotics, and suggest treatments to improve mobility and reduce discomfort. If you are experiencing sudden ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for advice.

Ankle pain is a common symptom of many lower limb problems. If you are experiencing ankle pain, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

The ankle is composed of a number of muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments. There are many conditions which may cause ankle pain. 

Causes

• Ankle strains or sprains
• Achilles tendon injuries
• Fractures
• Bursitis
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome

Symptoms

If you have ankle pain, you may also experience a variety of other symptoms depending on the underlying cause of the pain. Some of these symptoms may include ankle swelling, bruising, redness, numbness or tingling, instability, and difficulty walking.

Diagnosis

The underlying cause of ankle pain can be diagnosed by a chiropodist. Diagnoses are typically made based on your medical history, a physical examination of the affected ankle, and imaging studies such as X-rays. 

Treatment

Treatment for your ankle pain will depend on its underlying cause. Often, the chiropodist will recommend that you rest the affected ankle. You might also need to ice, compress, and elevate the ankle, wear an orthotic device, or take medications to reduce pain and inflammation. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scarborough, ON .