Ankle pain when walking can be frustrating and limit your ability to stay active and perform daily tasks. At the Orthopedic Specialty Institute (OSI), we know that ankle pain can have several causes, from minor sprains to more serious conditions like arthritis or tendinitis. Identifying the root cause of your ankle pain is the first step in getting effective treatment and getting back on your feet.
1. Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains are among the most common causes of ankle pain when walking. They occur when the ligaments that support your ankle stretch or tear, often due to sudden twisting or rolling of the foot. The common symptoms of an ankle sprain include pain, swelling, and bruising.
Depending on the severity of the injury, walking may become challenging or even impossible. It is essential to seek medical attention promptly after an ankle sprain to prevent long-term complications such as chronic instability.
How Do Sprains Happen?
Sprains can happen due to various activities and sports, including running, jumping, and contact sports. They are also common in people who have weak or unstable ankles and those with a history of previous sprains. Additionally, walking on uneven surfaces, stepping awkwardly, or wearing improper footwear may increase the risk of an ankle sprain.
Treating an Ankle Sprain
- Rest: Avoid walking or putting pressure on the injured ankle to give it time to heal.
- Ice and Compression: Apply ice to reduce swelling and wrap the ankle with a compression bandage to provide support.
- Elevation: Elevating the ankle helps to reduce swelling and improve circulation.
- Physical Therapy: For more severe sprains, physical therapy may be necessary to regain strength and stability in the ankle.
2. Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendinitis occurs when the Achilles tendon, which connects your calf muscles to your heel bone, becomes irritated or inflamed. This condition is common in individuals who increase their activity level too quickly or wear improper footwear. Symptoms of Achilles tendinitis include pain in the back of the ankle, especially during walking or running.
What Causes Tendonitis?
Repetitive activities such as running, jumping, or improper footwear may lead to tendon inflammation. Athletes or individuals who suddenly increase their activity level are at greater risk. Aging may also play a role as tendons become less flexible and more prone to injury. If left untreated, Achilles tendonitis can become chronic, causing long-term discomfort and affecting daily activities.
Managing Achilles Tendonitis
- Rest and Ice: Resting the tendon and applying ice can help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Gentle stretches and strengthening exercises for the calf muscles can help relieve tension on the Achilles tendon.
- Orthotics: Wearing supportive shoes or custom orthotics can help take the pressure off the Achilles tendon.
- Physical Therapy: In more advanced cases, physical therapy can help with strengthening the tendon and preventing further injury.
3. Arthritis
Arthritis in the ankle, particularly osteoarthritis, occurs when the cartilage in the joint wears down over time, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. Ankle pain when walking due to arthritis can be particularly severe in the morning or after periods of rest. Whether caused by aging, previous injuries, or genetics, arthritis can significantly impact daily activities and mobility. Symptoms of arthritis in the ankle include:
- Pain and stiffness in the ankle joint
- Swelling and tenderness around the joint
- Limited range of motion
- Instability and difficulty walking on uneven surfaces
Managing Arthritis in the Ankle
- Medication: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen can help manage pain and swelling.
- Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the stress placed on the ankle joint, relieving pain and slowing the progression of arthritis.
- Physical Therapy: Strengthening the muscles around the ankle joint can help improve stability and reduce discomfort.
- Injections: Corticosteroid injections may provide temporary relief from inflammation and pain.
4. Stress Fractures
Stress fractures are small cracks in the bones, often caused by overuse. They are common in the lower leg and foot and can lead to significant ankle pain when walking. To diagnose a stress fracture, your doctor may order an X-ray or MRI to detect any small cracks in the bone. If left untreated, stress fractures may lead to a broken bone.
What Causes Stress Fractures?
Stress fractures are most commonly caused by repetitive activities that put stress on the bones, such as running or jumping. They may occur in people with weakened bones, such as those with osteoporosis or individuals who suddenly increase their activity level without proper training. Wearing improper footwear or having an abnormal gait may also contribute to the development of stress fractures.
How to Treat Stress Fractures
- Immobilization: Wearing a cast, boot, or brace can help immobilize the ankle while it heals.
- Rest: It’s important to keep weight off the injured foot and avoid walking on the fractured ankle.
- Pain Management: Over-the-counter or prescribed pain medications can help manage discomfort.
- Surgery: For severe fractures, surgery may be necessary to realign the bones and stabilize the ankle.
5. Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of the tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel, located on the inside of the ankle. This condition can cause tingling, burning, and pain in the ankle, especially during walking. Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be triggered by an ankle injury, inflammation, or conditions like flat feet.
Treating Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Rest and Ice: Reducing activity and applying ice can help alleviate symptoms of nerve compression.
- Supportive Footwear or Orthotics: Wearing shoes that provide proper arch support can help prevent further compression of the tibial nerve.
- Anti-Inflammatory Medication: Over-the-counter or prescribed anti-inflammatory medications can reduce inflammation around the nerve.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to release the nerve from compression and alleviate symptoms.
Address Ankle Pain When Walking with Expert Care
Ankle pain when walking can be caused by a variety of conditions, and getting the right treatment is essential to prevent further damage and improve mobility. At Orthopedic Specialty Institute, our team of specialists, including Dr. Erol Yoldas, Dr. Martin Weaver and Dr. Daniel Almodovar-Frau, offers comprehensive care for ankle injuries and pain. Whether you need physical therapy, medication, or surgery, we are dedicated to providing the best possible treatment to get you back on your feet.
If you’re experiencing ankle pain, contact us today to request a consultation and find the right solution for you!