Ankle Pain Problem
Ankle or foot pain refers to a discomfort occur on your ankle and foot area. Most cases of ankle or foot pain are short term and are mostly caused by soft tissue injuries, such as sprains or strains.
The ankle is a complex part of the body where the tibia and fibula leg bones meet the talus foot bone. Ligaments hold these bones together and allow movement. The ankle is especially prone to injury because of this complexity.
Who Gets Ankle Pain?
Anyone of any age can experience ankle pain. Ankle pain is often caused by an accidental fall or sports injury. It is more common in athletes and in active men under the age of 24. In women, ankle pain is more prevalent in those over 30.
Some ankle and foot issues include:
- Ankle sprain:
- Overstretch or tear of the ligament ( tissue that connects the bones ). Mostly occur on the lateral side of the ankle because of the sudden twist of ankle.
- Tendinitis:
- Inflammation of the tendon. Commonly occur on Achilles tendon which lies on the back of lower leg and inserts onto your heels.
- Plantar Fasciitis:
- Inflammation of the soft tissue on the bottom of the foot ( plantar fascia ) that courses from the heel to the base of the toes.
Ankle Pain Can Be Associated with Symptoms Including:
- Ankle swelling
- Bruising
- Redness
- Numbness or tingling sensation
- Instability
- Burning pain
- Inability to bear weight on the affected ankle
- Stiffness and weakness
Conditions with Ankle Pain Symptoms
- Arthritis / Osteoarthritis
- Gout
- Nerve injury such as sciatica
- Blocked blood vessel
- Infection in the ankle joints
What Physiotherapist Can Help?
Treatment for ankle pain depends on the cause of the pain. Therefore, it is important to understand the cause of your symptoms before embarking on a treatment programme.
Common physiotherapy treatment:
- Pain management ( Hot or Cold therapy )
- Strengthening exercise for lower limb muscles
- Balance or proprioception training
- Patients education related to foot wear or posture
Common Physiotherapy Suggested Exercise
Gastrocnemius towel stretch
Loop a towel around the ball of foot and pull the toes towards your body, keep knee straight. Hold 20 seconds, repeat 3 times.
Plantar fascia stretch using ball
Sit / Stand and roll the arch in all direction by using a ball or any round objects. Do it for 2-3 minutes, 3 times per day.
