Injuries to the ankle often cause pain following the injury plus lingering instability of the ankle that can last for years after the injury. An ankle injury that causes side ankle pain is susceptible to this instability since the ligaments that stabilize the ankle are located along the sides of the ankle.
A common cause of side ankle pain is a sprain. A sprained ankle occurs when someone twists their ankle by stepping on an uneven surface or stepping on the side of the foot instead of the bottom. This uneven step or pressure on the side of the foot can cause the ankle to roll. The person’s weight becomes pressure directly on the ankle.
The ankle is not designed to withstand such force. The ligaments of the ankle can develop small tears from a sprained ankle. Traditional treatment of an ankle sprain is R.I.C.E. therapy which stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation.
Since an ankle sprain injury can cause a broken or fractured bone, the person should be evaluated by a physician. It is routine for severe ankle sprains be evaluated with an x-ray to check for bone fractures. The physician may prescribe the use of a cast or brace depending on the injury.
Ankle pain on the inside of the ankle is a common symptom of posterior tibial tendonitis. Posterior tibial tendonitis causes the arch of the foot to drop. Tendonitis is the inflammation of the tendon. This condition may be degenerative occurring over time or due to an injury.
Treatment for posterior tibial tendonitis may include the use of orthotics, anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy, and cortisone injections. Tendonitis affecting other tendons of the ankle can be the cause of ankle pain. In some cases, tendonitis must be surgically repaired.
Many illnesses can cause pain in the ankle including side ankle pain. Gout is a disease that causes the buildup of uric acid deposits in the joints. Arthritis can cause pain, stiffness, and inflammation of the joints including the ankles. Though ankylosing spondylitis is most commonly associated with back pain, this condition can also cause ankle pain.
Since ankle pain can have lasting effects on the person’s ability to walk or participate in sports, it is important for someone suffering from ankle pain to be properly diagnosed and treated by a physician. Some conditions that can cause ankle pain get worse if left untreated.
