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Causes and Symptoms of Chronic Ankle Pain

Chronic ankle pain refers to persistent discomfort in the joint that lasts for an extended period and may interfere with daily activities. Symptoms include ongoing pain, difficulty walking, foot swelling, and visible bruising. Many individuals also experience a limited range of motion, making it hard to move the ankle freely or bear weight comfortably. Several conditions can contribute to chronic ankle pain, such as tendonitis, where the tendons become inflamed due to overuse or injury. Arthritis is another common cause, leading to joint stiffness and swelling over time. Additionally, ankle instability, often the result of repeated sprains or weakened ligaments, may cause the joint to feel wobbly or prone to giving way. Chronic ankle pain often causes difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can start you on a comprehensive treatment plan.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Practice Name. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendonitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Bursitis
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Common Foot Injuries in Tennis Players

Tennis players are at risk for various foot and ankle injuries due to the sport’s fast-paced lateral movements and frequent pivoting. Among the most common tennis injuries are ankle sprains, Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and stress fractures. These conditions can result from repetitive impact, poor foot alignment, or sudden changes in direction on hard courts. For example, an ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments surrounding the ankle are overstretched or torn, often after a quick pivot or awkward landing. Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis are overuse injuries that affect the soft tissues in the heel and can lead to chronic pain if left untreated. Stress fractures, which are hairline cracks in the bones, result from repetitive pounding of the feet during play. A podiatrist can use diagnostic imaging to confirm the exact type and extent of the injury. Depending on the diagnosis, medical treatment may include immobilization, custom orthotic support, anti-inflammatory medication, or surgery for more serious cases. If you experience foot or ankle pain after playing tennis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Practice Name. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Plantar Fasciosis
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
That Ankle Pain May Be Caused by Gout

Gout is a painful type of arthritis that can affect the ankle, not just the big toe. It develops when uric acid builds up in the body and forms sharp crystals in the joints. When this occurs in the ankle, it may cause sudden, sharp pain along with swelling, redness, and warmth in the area. Movements like walking or climbing stairs can become difficult during a flare-up. Gout flare-ups in the ankle may last for several days and often return over time, if not properly managed. Risk factors include a diet high in red or organ meats, alcohol consumption, sugary beverages, excess body weight, and high blood pressure. A podiatrist can help determine whether gout is the cause of your ankle pain by examining the foot and ordering diagnostic tests, including bloodwork or imaging. Once diagnosed, a podiatrist can recommend treatment that may include medication to lower uric acid levels and reduce inflammation. If you are experiencing sharp pain in your ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam to determine if gout is the cause.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Practice Name. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
- Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
- Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
- Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
- Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility
Risk Factors
- Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
- Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
- Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
- Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
- Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
- Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.