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Pain in the ankle
Different ankle problems
Ankle is the same as the ankle joint, including the ankle bones. It is the joint between the two bones of the lower leg, the tibia and fibula, and the metatarsal bone. The ankle or ankle joint can be injured in a variety of ways, for example, by stepping wrongly, landing badly on the foot or kicking something hard. An oblique step can result in a sprain, while a more forceful impact on the foot can result in a broken ankle or ankle joint. In both cases, the ankle usually swells up.
Swollen ankle
An injury to the ankle can result in a swollen ankle, ankle joint. The swelling can be caused by a fracture of the ankle or a sprain. The injury results in inflammation as the body starts a healing process. The swelling makes the ankle joint stiff and makes it difficult to move the foot. The pressure in the tissues increases the pressure on pain receptors that signal pain.
A swollen ankle can also be caused by poor circulation, heart problems, etc. It can also be a side effect of various medications.
Sprained ankle
A sprained ankle or sprained ankle joint involves damage to the soft tissues of the ankle, such as ligaments, joint capsules or tendons. The ankle swells up as an inflammation is created, which means that a healing process starts and a build-up of tissue fluid forms around the injury. The ankle hurts and you may find it difficult to support your foot. A sprained ankle usually heals on its own within a couple of weeks.
Broken ankle
A broken ankle means a fracture of one of the bones of the ankle. Often it is the lower part of the fibula towards the outer ankle that breaks, but one or more of the smaller bones in the joint may also break. Depending on the severity of the fracture, a cast is often needed. If the bones are in the correct position, a strong support bandage may be sufficient. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to realign the bones.
A broken ankle is very painful, it swells up, it can become bluish and it is difficult or impossible to support the foot.
Why do you get ankle pain?
The swelling of the tissue around the ankle presses on pain receptors that signal pain. This is done to allow the injured area to rest and heal and to avoid overstressing the joint.
Treatment to get rid of ankle pain
Once you are sure that a fracture has been ruled out, you can get help with treatment at a FasciaClinic. The treatment results in an improved flow which favors the healing process which is faster. The treatment is painless, comfortable and gentle.
Exercises for ankle pain
If a swollen wrist is due to a skeletal injury, it may require a cast. Treatment at a FasciaClinic helps to get the flow going in the fascia of the wrist and reduce pressure and swelling to reduce pain and stimulate healing. The treatment is gentle, comfortable and painless.
Ankle problems – What can I do myself?
The ankle should be rested for the first few days in the acute phase and not strained. It may be helpful to relieve the pressure completely using a cane or crutches to avoid supporting the foot if it is too painful. Taping or wrapping the ankle, the ankle joint, can be used to stabilize the ankle to avoid unnecessary movement and to reduce strain. Light massage over the ankle can get the blood flowing and speed up healing.
