Ankle Pain

Ankle pain isn't just an inconvenience; it can restrict your mobility and rob you of the ability to enjoy everyday activities. At Fords Foot and Ankle Care in Fords, New Jersey, experienced podiatrist Carl Ingrassia, DPM, offers several effective solutions to relieve ankle pain and improve your mobility. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online today to uncover the source of your pain and begin your journey toward lasting relief.

What causes ankle pain?

The ankle joint is responsible for enabling movement and stability of the foot and lower leg. As a hinge joint, it connects the tibia (shinbone), fibula (small lower leg bone), and the talus (in the foot). Damage to the ankle joint can destabilize the foot and lower leg, making it difficult to bear weight and absorb shock without pain.

Many conditions can cause ankle pain, including: 

Sprain

A sprain can result from the ligaments around the ankle joint overstretching or tearing, leading to instability and discomfort.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a chronic, degenerative condition that causes persistent joint inflammation. As the cushion around the joint breaks down, friction causes stiffness, swelling, and pain.

Bursitis

Bursitis causes the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the ankle joint to swell, which can affect your range of motion and mobility.

Fracture

A break in any of the bones that make up the ankle joint can cause severe pain, restrict motion, and limit mobility.

Tendonitis

The tendons surrounding and supporting the ankle joint can inflame from injury or overuse, causing pain and limited range of motion.

What should I do if ankle pain doesn’t go away?

You should never ignore nagging ankle pain. If your ankle pain persists for more than a few days, try these home remedies:

• Rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE)
• Over-the-counter (OTC) anti-inflammatory pain relievers
• Modified footwear
• Easing pressure

While home treatments can help heal a minor ankle sprain or injury, more severe pain and restricted motion require a podiatric evaluation. Dr. Ingrassia can perform a comprehensive diagnostic assessment at Fords Foot and Ankle Care to determine your ankle pain’s underlying cause and develop a personalized treatment plan.

What are the treatments for ankle pain?

After performing a comprehensive medical history review, foot and ankle evaluation, and digital X-rays, Dr. Ingrassia may recommend a combination of treatments for ankle pain:

• Compression bandages or bracing
• Footwear changes
• Custom-made orthotics
• Activity modification
• Physical therapy
• Laser treatments
• Ankle arthroscopy (minimally invasive surgery)

If nonsurgical solutions fail to relieve your ankle pain, Dr. Ingrassia may recommend surgery to repair the joint. Call Fords Foot and Ankle Care today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.