15 Injuries that Cause Chronic Ankle Pain

Ankle pain can be more than just temporary discomfort. It can turn into a chronic issue that affects daily life. Learning about the types of injuries that lead to chronic ankle pain is crucial for effective treatment and relief.

What Injuries Cause Chronic Ankle Pain?

Chronic ankle pain can result from various injuries and conditions. By identifying the root causes of injuries in Arizona, individuals can better manage their condition and improve their mobility and comfort. Here are some common causes:

1. Ankle Fractures: The breaks in one or more bones in the ankle joint cause improper healing, arthritis, or nerve damage, which can lead to chronic pain.
2. Ankle Sprains: Stretching or tearing the ligaments that support the ankle might cause incomplete healing or recurrent sprains, which can lead to long-term pain and instability.
3. Achilles Tendon: Injuries to the Achilles tendon, including tendinitis or rupture, cause persistent pain and reduced function if not properly treated.
4. Ankle Instability: Recurring sprains and ankle giving way, which can result from repeated ankle sprains or an initial injury that never fully healed.
5. Osteoarthritis: Degenerative joint disease, which affects the ankle, might cause cartilage wear and tear and lead to pain, swelling, and stiffness.
6. Rheumatoid Arthritis: This autoimmune condition affects joints, including the ankle, and causes chronic inflammation, which leads to pain and joint damage.
7. Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons around the ankle, such as the peroneal tendons, causes repeated stress or improper healing, which leads to chronic pain.
8. Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD): Dysfunction or tear of the posterior tibial tendon might lead to a flatfoot deformity and cause pain and instability.
9. Nerve Entrapment: Compression or irritation of nerves in the ankle, such as tarsal tunnel syndrome, causes numbness, tingling, and chronic pain.
10. Stress Fractures: Small cracks in the bones of the ankle caused by repetitive stress can cause chronic pain if not given adequate rest and treatment.
11. Scar Tissue: Formation of fibrous tissue after an injury or surgery can restrict movement and cause pain.
12. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): A chronic pain condition that may occur after an injury and causes severe pain, swelling, and changes in skin color and temperature.
13. Ligament Injuries: Damage to the ligaments other than sprains, such as complete tears, leads to instability and chronic pain.
14. Bone Spurs: Extra bone growths in the ankle joint can cause pain and restrict movement.
15. Infections: Infections in the bone (osteomyelitis) or joint (septic arthritis) cause swelling, warmth around the ankle, and persistent pain.

Chronic Lateral Ankle Pain

Chronic lateral ankle pain is ongoing discomfort on the outer side of the ankle that results from repeated sprains or injuries that have not healed properly. When the ligaments are repeatedly stretched or torn, they become weak and insatiable with persistent pain. This can cause the ankle to give way frequently, even during simple activities over time.

Chronic Ankle Pain After Sprain

Ankle sprains are a common injury, but sometimes, the pain lingers long after the initial healing period. Chronic ankle pain after a sprain occurs if the injury is severe or not treated correctly. In some cases, the ligaments do not heal properly, weakening the ankle and making it susceptible to further injury. This can create a cycle of repeated sprains and chronic pain.

Chronic Ankle Pain Treatment

Treating chronic ankle pain effectively requires a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach. Here are various treatment options:

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Rest and Activity Modification: Avoid activities that exacerbate pain and give the ankle adequate rest. This helps reduce inflammation and prevent further injury.
• Medications:
  • Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen or naproxen reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Over-the-counter options like acetaminophen or prescription pain.
  • Topical Analgesics creams or patches are applied directly to the ankle.
• Physical Therapy
  • Exercises improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
  • Manual therapy or hands-on techniques mobilize the joint and soft tissues.
  • Modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, or heat/cold therapy to decrease pain and promote healing.
• Orthotics and Bracing
  • Custom Insoles provide arch support and improve alignment.
  • Ankle braces stabilize the joint and prevent further injury.
• Injections
  • Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain.
  • Hyaluronic Acid injections to lubricate the joint and improve mobility.
  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections promote healing through growth factors in the patient’s blood.
• Alternative Therapies
  • Acupuncture relieves pain through the insertion of fine needles.
  • Chiropractic Care adjusts the ankle joint and improves alignment.
  • Massage therapy decreases muscle tension and improves circulation.
• Lifestyle Modifications
  • Weight management reduces stress on the ankle joint.
  • Footwear such as supportive shoes and avoiding high heels.

Surgical Treatments

• Arthroscopy: This minimally invasive surgery removes scar tissue, bone spurs, or loose fragments, reducing pain and improving joint function.
• Osteotomy: Cutting and realigning bones improve joint alignment and function, which alleviates pain and corrects deformities.
• Arthrodesis (Ankle Fusion): Fusing the bones of the ankle joint eliminates motion and pain, which provides stability but reduces flexibility.
• Total Ankle Replacement: Replacing the damaged ankle joint with an artificial implant preserves joint motion and reduces pain. This procedure is typically used for severe arthritis.
• Tendon Repair or Reconstruction: Repairing or reconstructing damaged tendons, which improves stability and function.
• Nerve Decompression Surgery: Relieving pressure on compressed nerves, which reduces nerve-related pain.

Rehabilitation and Recovery

• Post-surgery rehabilitation restores strength and mobility.
• Gradually resume normal activities under medical supervision.
• Ongoing use of medications or therapies to control pain.

Finding relief from chronic ankle pain can greatly improve the quality of life. Lifestyle changes, along with medical treatments, can make a significant difference. Regular exercise to strengthen the ankle, combined with rest and proper footwear, can help manage pain. Applying ice to reduce inflammation and using compression wraps can also provide relief.

Chronic Ankle Pain After Injury

Injuries that cause chronic ankle pain are not limited to sprains. Fractures, tendonitis, and arthritis can also lead to persistent pain. If you experience ongoing pain after an ankle injury, it’s important to seek medical attention. Proper diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing chronic issues.

Chronic Ankle Pain After Fracture

Chronic ankle pain after a fracture can be a challenging and frustrating condition. Possible causes include:

• Arthritis due to cartilage damage following a fracture.
• Chronic pain from nerve injury during the fracture or surgery.
• Inflammation of tendons around the ankle due to overuse or improper healing.
• Instability or deformity from incorrect fracture healing.
• Excessive scar tissue causes stiffness and pain.

Symptoms are:

• Persistent pain, either constant or intermittent.
• Swelling and tenderness around the ankle.
• Stiffness and reduced range of motion.
• Instability or the feeling of the ankle giving way.
• Sensitivity to touch or temperature changes.

Chronic Ankle Pain Management Here in Arizona

At Foot and Ankle Clinics of Arizona, our team of specialists is dedicated to helping you find relief from chronic ankle pain. Whether you’re dealing with post-traumatic arthritis, nerve damage, tendinitis, or any other ankle condition, we offer personalized care tailored to your needs. Take the first step towards pain-free living and visit us to schedule your consultation with us.

Conclusion

Chronic ankle pain can significantly impact your life, but understanding its causes and seeking appropriate treatment can make a difference. Whether your pain results from repeated sprains, fractures, or other injuries, professional care can help you find relief and return to your regular activities.

FAQs

What are ankle injuries most commonly associated with?

Ankle injuries are most commonly associated with sports, accidents, and falls.

What is the most commonly injured ankle?

The most commonly injured ankle is the lateral (outer) ankle, typically due to sprains.

Can you fix chronic ankle pain?

Yes, chronic ankle pain can often be managed or fixed with appropriate treatment like physical therapy, medications, and sometimes surgery.