Chronic Lateral Ankle Pain
Chronic Lateral Ankle Pain
Chronic Lateral Ankle Pain
Pain, usually on the outer side of the ankle, may be so intense that
you have difficulty walking or participating in sports. In some cases,
the pain is a constant, dull ache.
Swelling
Stiffness
Tenderness
An injury to the nerves that pass through the ankle. The nerves may
be stretched, torn, injured by a direct blow or pinched under
pressure (entrapment).
The development of scar tissue in the ankle after a sprain. The scar
tissue takes up space in the joint, thus putting pressure on the
ligaments.
Because there are so many potential causes for chronic ankle pain, your
doctor may do a number of tests to pinpoint the diagnosis, beginning with
a physical examination. Your doctor will feel for tender areas and look for
signs of swelling. He or she will have you move your foot and ankle to
assess range of motion and flexibility. Your doctor may also test the
sensation of the nerves and may administer a shot of local anesthetic to
help pinpoint the source of the symptoms.
Your doctor may order several X-ray views of your ankle joint. You may
also need to get X-rays of the other ankle so the doctor can compare the
injured and noninjured ankles. In some cases, additional tests such as a
bone scan, computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance image
(MRI) may be needed.
Prevention
Almost half of all people who sprain their ankle once will experience
additional ankle sprains and chronic pain. You can help prevent chronic
pain from developing by following these simple steps:
1. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and complete the
prescribed physical rehabilitation program.
2. Do not return to activity until cleared by your physician.
3. When you do return to sports, use an ankle brace rather than taping
the ankle. Bracing is more effective than taping in preventing ankle
sprains.
4. If you wear high-top shoes, be sure to lace them properly and
completely.
RICE Treatment
As soon as possible after an injury, such as a knee or ankle sprain, you can
relieve pain and swelling and promote healing and flexibility with RICE
Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.
Rest. Rest and protect the injured or sore area. Stop, change, or take
a break from any activity that may be causing your pain or soreness.
Ice. Cold will reduce pain and swelling. Apply an ice or cold pack
right away to prevent or minimize swelling. Apply the ice or cold pack for 10
to 20 minutes, 3 or more times a day. After 48 to 72 hours, if swelling is
gone, apply heat to the area that hurts. Do not apply ice or heat directly to
the skin. Place a towel over the cold or heat pack before applying it to the
skin.
with an elastic bandage (such as an Ace wrap), will help decrease swelling.
Don't wrap it too tightly, because this can cause more swelling below the
affected area. Loosen the bandage if it gets too tight. Signs that the
bandage is too tight include numbness, tingling, increased pain, coolness,
or swelling in the area below the bandage. Talk to your doctor if you think
you need to use a wrap for longer than 48 to 72 hours; a more serious
problem may be present.
How is it Treated?
Bell's palsy affects each individual differently. Some cases are mild and do
not require treatment as the symptoms usually subside on their own
within 2 weeks. For others, treatment may include medications and other