Tracking Down the Source of Ankle Discomfort

A nagging problem for some of our Nature Coast patients at Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle is persistent ankle stiffness and pain. There are a few different potential sources of ankle discomfort, and while the symptoms may be similar, the treatment will vary depending on the root cause. For this reason, if you are suffering from any chronic ankle problems, it’s important that you make an appointment at our Hudson office (727-868-2128 or 352-683-5799) so our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales, can examine your ankle and determine the correct course of action to bring you relief. Below are a few possible reasons for chronic ankle discomfort.

Undiagnosed Ankle Sprain—Perhaps you missed the last step coming down the stairs, or your ankle gave way when you stepped off a curb. At the time, it may not have seemed very painful or like a big deal, but you may have sustained a sprain. Many patients mistakenly think an ankle can’t be sprained if they can still walk on it, but that is untrue. You may still be able to bear weight on a sprained ankle. Other symptoms of a sprain include swelling and bruising.

Arthritis—Stiffness in the ankle, along with pain and difficulty achieving a full range of motion, may point to arthritis. Wear and tear on the joints, and surrounding cartilage increases the risk of arthritis with age. Osteoarthritis is more likely to settle into a joint that has sustained an injury in the past. It can also develop due to a biomechanical problem such as flat feet or overly high arches.

Chronic Lateral Ankle Pain or Instability—The symptoms of this disorder mimic those of an ankle sprain: pain, swelling, stiffness, and the feeling of weakness or like the ankle will give way when you walk, especially on uneven surfaces. The most common cause of chronic lateral ankle pain is an ankle sprain you have had in the past that didn’t fully heal. Too often, patients stop physical therapy once the ankle stops hurting, but it takes time to strengthen the surrounding muscles, preventing future sprains and injuries.

Ignoring ankle pain and discomfort can lead to repeated ankle sprains and falls. Don’t delay. If your ankle is bothering you, contact us today.