Sprains, breaks, soft tissue injuries, and other trauma can cause acute or chronic ankle pain. According to Columbia, TN-based podiatrist Dr. Danielle Malin, ankle injuries are a serious concern, as foot and ankle pain can cause issues with walking, running, and even relaxing.
Types Of Ankle Injury
While many people believe that ankle injuries are exclusive to athletes, nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, women over the age of 30 experience ankle injuries just as often as adolescent boys and young men. The main cause of ankle injury is running, but there are many other reasons that your ankle may appear red, swollen, and tender.
As a podiatrist, Dr. Malin says she sees ankle injuries caused by a variety of reasons. Unfortunately, accidents happen. Car crashes, ill-fitting shoes, falling, or misstepping on an uneven surface can all rotate the ankle out of place.
Two Common Ankle Injuries
- Fractures. A fracture may be a complete or partial break caused by trauma, disease, or overuse. If you have a fractured ankle, it may be painful to walk, and casting, splinting, or other forms of immobilization may be required. In extreme cases, a podiatrist may have to perform ankle surgery to stabilize the bone and tissue.
- Soft tissue trauma. The ankle is made up of more than just bones, says Dr. Malin. As such, the ankle is also prone to soft tissue injuries, such as sprains and strains. When muscles and tendons are stretched beyond their natural reach, these areas become highly inflamed, which can lead to a condition known as tendinitis.
Ankle Injury Symptoms And Treatment
Your podiatrist’s office in Columbia treats a multitude of ankle injuries. Dr. Malin explains that there are many different symptoms that may include:
- Sharp pain in the ankle
- Joint swelling
- Inability to bear weight
- Stiffness or tenderness
- Reduced range of motion
- An audible popping noise coming from the ankle when you walk
Ankle injury treatment may consist of bracing or the use of anti-inflammatory medications. Dr. Malin will only recommend surgery for extreme cases that are unlikely to heal on their own.
How To Avoid An Ankle Injury
While it is not always possible to avoid injuries, Dr. Malin says that many can be circumvented through a combination of a healthy diet, wearing the right shoes, and warming muscles up before rigorous physical activity. Dr. Malin also recommends that people who routinely experience ankle injuries talk with their podiatrist about protective bracing and strengthening exercises.
Dr. Danielle Malin of Premier Foot & Ankle Care is a podiatrist in Columbia, TN. She’s proud to work in her hometown as an independent practice owner and staff member at Maury Regional Medical Center.
