At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center many patients come to us with ankle pain and discomfort saying, “But I didn’t twist my ankle or fall—I don’t know why it hurts.” Chronic ankle problems can include the following symptoms:
- Stiffness
- Pain or soreness
- Feeling of instability—like the ankle is going to “give way”
- Swelling
These may be signs of osteochondritis, chronic lateral ankle pain, “weak ankles” or another chronic ankle condition.
What’s Behind the Pain?
Most often, chronic ankle problems affect patients who have had one or more ankle sprain injuries in the past, leaving them with scar tissue or nerve damage in the ankle. In many cases ankle sprains are either not treated promptly or rehabilitated fully, leaving the patient more likely to experience repeated sprains or ongoing ankle pain and discomfort. Other common sources of chronic ankle pain include: arthritis or other condition that causes joint inflammation or an undiagnosed ankle fracture.
Getting Relief
The first step is to have one of our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria Foley and Dr. Constance Omelas evaluate your ankle. The foot doctor will want to get a detailed medical history and will be particularly interested in knowing about any previous ankle injuries or problems. X-rays or other imaging studies may be made to get a more complete idea of the condition of your ankle.
Once the podiatrist has diagnosed your chronic ankle problem a treatment plan that best suits your condition and lifestyle can be developed. Treatment options may include one or more of the following:
- Anti-inflammatory or steroidal medications to relieve swelling and relieve pain
- Immobilizing the ankle to allow healing
- Physical therapy to improve range of motion and strengthen supporting muscles
- Ankle braces or supports
If you are suffering with ongoing ankle pain, stiffness or weak ankles, don’t assume nothing can be done about it. Make an appointment at our Long Beach office today by calling: 562-420-9800 and find out how you can get relief and resume the active lifestyle that you love.
