Have you been experiencing pain on the outside of your ankle? If so, you may be suffering from lateral ankle pain.
This type of pain is typically caused by an injury or overuse to the ligaments and tendons on the outer side of your ankle. While it may seem like a minor issue, ignoring the signs of lateral ankle pain can lead to more serious problems down the road.
In this guide, we will discuss when to seek medical help for this type of ankle pain. We will also look at the signs of injury and treatment options for recovery. Keep reading to learn more.
The Signs
Ankle pain can manifest in various ways. This makes it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause. However, there are some common signs and symptoms that you should be aware of.
Swelling
Swelling around the outside of your ankle is a clear indication that something is wrong. It may appear immediately after an injury or develop gradually over time.
The swelling is usually caused by inflammation in the ligaments and tendons. This can make it difficult to walk or put weight on your affected foot.
Bruising
Bruising may appear as a discoloration of the skin. The color can range from purple to green and yellow.
This bruising occurs when blood vessels gets damaged. This can be due to impact or strain on the ligaments and tendons. While bruising may not seem serious, it can be a sign of a more severe injury.
Instability
If you feel like your ankle is giving out or unstable, it could be a sign of a ligament tear. This can happen when the ligaments gets stretched too far or torn completely.
You may also experience a feeling of weakness in your ankle. This can make it challenging to engage in activities that require balance and stability.
Pain and Tenderness
Pain and tenderness are common symptoms of lateral ankle pain. They typically occur on the outer side of your ankle, where the ligaments and tendons are located.
The level of pain can range from mild discomfort to severe throbbing pain. You may also notice sensitivity when touching or applying pressure to the affected area.
Limited Range of Motion
A restricted ability to move your ankle freely can indicate an underlying issue. If you struggle to flex or extend your ankle joint, it may be a sign of damage to the surrounding structures. This limitation can affect your daily activities and overall mobility.
Clicking or Popping Sounds
Hearing a clicking or popping sensation when moving your ankle can be indicative of damage within the joint. These sounds may be associated with ligaments catching or snapping over bony structures. While they might not always be painful, it’s crucial to pay attention to the sensations accompanying these sounds.
When to Seek Medical Help
Some ankle pain can be managed at home with rest and ice, but certain signs require medical attention. If your pain is severe or persists for more than a few days, it’s best to consult a doctor. They can assess any potential injuries and provide proper treatment.
You should also seek medical help if you cannot put weight on your affected foot or have difficulty walking. This includes if you experience numbness or tingling in your foot along with ankle pain. This could be a sign of a serious injury that requires immediate attention.
Make sure to find a reputable medical professional who specializes in ankle injuries. To help you with this, consider checking Dr. James Hurst. He is a highly experienced orthopedic surgeon who has treated many patients with ankle pain and injuries.
Treatment Options
The treatment for lateral ankle pain will depend on the cause and severity of your injury. Here are some common options:
Rest and Ice
If your pain is mild, you can try using the RICE method – rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Resting and icing your ankle helps reduce ankle inflammation and pain.
Compression can also help with swelling. You can also elevate your foot to improve blood flow to promote healing.
Physical Therapy
If your pain is due to overuse or a previous injury, physical therapy may be recommended. This involves ankle pain relief exercises and stretches to improve strength and flexibility in the affected ankle. It can also help prevent future injuries.
The therapy may include foot exercises for balance and coordination. It can also include strengthening exercises for the muscles in your foot and ankle.
Medications
In some cases, your doctor may prescribe pain medication or anti-inflammatory drugs. This is to help manage your symptoms. These medications can also help reduce swelling and promote healing.
Surgery
If your lateral ankle pain is caused by a severe injury, surgery may be necessary. This is usually the case for torn ligaments or tendons. The surgery aims to repair and reconstruct the damaged tissue to restore stability and function in your ankle.
It’s essential to follow your doctor’s recommendations and instructions for post-surgery care. This includes physical therapy and proper rehabilitation to ensure a successful recovery.
Prevention is Key
While injuries cannot always be avoided, there are steps you can take to prevent lateral ankle pain. These include:
- wear proper footwear
- use supportive braces during physical activity
- warm up and stretch before exercising
- avoid uneven surfaces when possible
- strengthen your feet and ankles
Additionally, listen to your body and don’t push through any pain or discomfort. If you do experience an injury, seek medical help and follow a proper recovery plan to prevent future issues.
Managing Lateral Ankle Pain
Lateral ankle pain should not be ignored. If you experience any of the above signs and symptoms, seek medical help to properly address the issue. With proper treatment and prevention measures, you can recover from this type of ankle pain and prevent future injuries.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Take care of your ankles and listen to your body’s signals to stay healthy and active.
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