A woman talks to a doctor while standing on one foot in a physical therapy office.

Ankle Pain

Ankle pain is often due to an ankle sprain, but can also be caused by ankle instability, arthritis, gout, tendonitis, fracture, nerve compression (tarsal tunnel syndrome), infection or poor structural alignment of the leg or foot. Ankle pain can be associated with swelling, stiffness, redness and warmth in the area. The pain is often described as an intense, dull ache that occurs during weight-bearing activities and ankle motion.

Initial treatment may consist of rest, ice, elevation and immobilization, but may also include nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, and physical therapy and cortisone injection.

For more information on ankle pain, see these foot and ankle conditions:
• Achilles tendonitis
• Ankle fracture
• Ankle sprain
• Gout
• Osteoarthritis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome (nerve compression)

A foot-and-ankle surgeon at AFAS can determine the cause of your ankle pain and appropriate treatment options.

Contact AFAS