Chronic Ankle Pain
Understanding persistent ankle problems
Common Causes of Chronic Ankle Pain
Chronic ankle pain can result from previous injuries that didn't heal properly, arthritis, or ongoing tendon problems. The ankle is a weight-bearing joint that undergoes significant stress during daily activities.1
Causes2
Post-Traumatic
- Chronic ankle instability (after sprains)
- Post-traumatic arthritis
- Impingement (scar tissue)
- Osteochondral lesions
Degenerative
- Ankle osteoarthritis
- Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction
Inflammatory
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Gout
- Tendinitis
Symptoms
- Pain with walking or standing
- Swelling
- Stiffness
- Instability ("giving way")
- Catching or locking
Treatment3
Conservative
- Physical therapy
- Balance and proprioception training
- Ankle braces or supports
- Orthotics
- Pain medications
- Corticosteroid injections
Surgery
- Arthroscopy
- Ligament reconstruction
- Ankle fusion or replacement (severe arthritis)
Prevention of Recurrence
- Strengthen ankle muscles
- Balance training
- Wear supportive footwear
- Use bracing during sports
References
- Hertel J. Functional anatomy, pathomechanics, and pathophysiology of lateral ankle instability. J Athl Train. 2002;37(4):364-375.
- Valderrabano V, Horisberger M, Russell I, et al. Etiology of ankle osteoarthritis. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2009;467(7):1800-1806.
- Gribble PA, Bleakley CM, Caulfield BM, et al. Evidence review for the 2016 International Ankle Consortium consensus statement. Br J Sports Med. 2016;50(24):1496-1505.