Ankle Pain

Because the entire weight of your body is supported by the ankle, it is especially vulnerable to injury. The ankle joint is comprised of ligaments, tendons and bones which may contribute to the pain and discomfort associated with a wide range of conditions, including the following.

Ankle Sprain

Ankle sprains are common sports injuries which occur when the ligaments in the ankle joint are overstretched. This results in tears to the ligaments, the degree of which determines the severity of the sprain. Any movement of the ankle joint or weight placed on the sprain will result in pain.

Achilles Tendonitis

The large tendon on the back of the heel is known as the Achilles tendon. Tendonitis results when the tendon is overused and small tears occur in the tissue. Sufferers of Achilles tendonitis experience swelling and pain in the back of the ankle.

Stress Fracture

A stress fracture is a small crack in the bone that occurs through overuse when the muscles in the ankle become fatigued and rather than absorbing shock, transfer it to the bone. With a stress fracture, pain occurs when direct pressure is placed on the bone or during any activity that puts additional stress on the injured site, such as jumping.

Arthritis

Both osteoarthritis (wear and tear) and rheumatoid arthritis of the ankle joint can cause pain to occur during activities or even at rest.