Ankle Pain
Ankle pain can stop you in your tracks, preventing you from walking, exercising or even standing comfortably. Whether it’s a sudden injury, overuse or an underlying condition like arthritis, ankle pain shouldn’t be ignored.
At PhysioDirect, we know how ankle pain can impact your life. Our experienced physios diagnose and treat a wide range of ankle problems, from sprains and strains to more complex conditions. We offer bespoke treatment plans to reduce pain, improve mobility and strengthen your ankle to prevent future problems. Don’t let ankle pain hold you back – take the first step to recovery with us and get your freedom back.
What are the Causes of Ankle Pain?
Ankle pain is a common problem that can affect daily life.
The most frequent causes are injuries such as sprains, which occur from sudden twists or falls. Overuse conditions like Achilles tendinitis can develop from repetitive activities, especially in sports or jobs that require standing for long periods.
Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, can cause pain and stiffness in the ankle joint, especially in older adults. Bursitis, an inflammation of the small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joint, can also cause discomfort.
Structural issues like flat feet or high arches can cause ankle pain by altering the foot’s biomechanics. Ankle pain can also stem from nerve damage or poor circulation.
In some cases it can be from a fracture or dislocation, in which case it will typically be accompanied by severe pain, swelling or deformity.
Knowing the causes is important for proper diagnosis and treatment, which can range from self-care to professional physiotherapy treatment.
What Treatments Can We Provide to Help Ankle Pain
Physiotherapists offer a range of treatments for ankle pain specific to your condition and needs.
Firstly, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) is often recommended for acute injuries to reduce swelling and pain. As treatment progresses, manual therapy is key. This may include joint mobilisation to improve range of motion and soft tissue massage to reduce muscle tension and promote healing.
Exercise is a big part of ankle rehabilitation. Our therapists will design a personalised exercise programme that will include:
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Ankle and supporting muscle strengthening
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Balance and proprioception training
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Flexibility exercises
In some cases, physiotherapists may use modalities such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation. Taping or ankle braces may also be used to support the healing process.
As recovery progresses functional exercises that mimic daily activities or sport specific movements will be introduced to get you back to normal activities.
