Ankle pain can be a symptom of various types of arthritis, each with distinct characteristics and causes. Osteoarthritis, often associated with aging, occurs when the protective cartilage cushioning the ends of the bones wears down over time. This leads to pain and stiffness in the ankle. Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, including those in the ankle. Inflammation, swelling, and pain in the ankles are common symptoms. Gout, another form of arthritis, is caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. This condition can lead to sudden, severe attacks of pain and redness in the ankle. There are different treatment strategies for each type of arthritis, including medication and lifestyle changes. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve symptoms and improve joint function. A podiatrist, or foot doctor, can help diagnose the specific type of arthritis causing ankle pain through clinical evaluation and imaging tests. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan. 

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Orange County Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Irvine, Huntington Beach, Orange, Newport Beach, and Long Beach, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken ankle occurs when the bones forming the ankle joint suffer fractures. This injury often arises from sudden impacts, twists, or repetitive stress on the ankle. Symptoms typically entail intense pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty walking, and potential deformity surrounding the ankle area. Managing a broken ankle depends on factors like the extent and location of the fracture. Treatment options may include immobilization using a cast or splint, rest, elevation, and occasionally surgical intervention to realign and stabilize the bones. If you have broken your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer specialized expertise in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle conditions, including fractures.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Orange County Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Irvine, Huntington Beach, Orange, Newport Beach, and Long Beach, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.