Ankle Pain Specialist

What is ankle pain?

Ankle pain includes any discomfort you feel in and around the flexible joint. Symptoms may include pain, stiffness, or swelling. Depending on the cause, your ankle pain may make weight-bearing activities impossible. 

Ankle pain may affect anyone at any time. However, ankle injuries that cause pain are more common in athletes and older adults. 

Though you may be able to manage your ankle pain with at-home care, getting an evaluation early at Alpine Orthopedics and Sports Medicine may prevent your ankle pain from turning into a chronic problem. 

What are the causes of ankle pain?

Ankle pain may develop from any injury or disease that affects one or more of the components that make up your ankle joint. Common causes of ankle pain include:

• Ankle sprain
• Fractures
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon tear
• Bursitis
• Arthritis
• Flatfoot

You may also develop ankle pain if you have problems with your other weight-bearing joints, such as your knees, hips, or back. Problems with these joints may place additional stress on the ankle, resulting in pain. 

What happens during an ankle pain consultation?

When you come in for an ankle pain consultation at Alpine Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, you can expect a comprehensive patient-focused exam. 

Your provider asks detailed questions about your symptoms, including when they started, the type of pain you feel, and activities that worsen your discomfort. They review your medical history and examine the ankle, assessing structure, strength, and mobility.

To confirm or rule out the cause of your ankle pain, your provider performs diagnostic imaging, such as MRI, X-ray, or ultrasound. Alpine Orthopedics and Sports Medicine is a state-of-the-art orthopedic practice and conducts all imaging tests on-site. 

How is ankle pain treated?

Treatment for your ankle pain may depend on the underlying cause. The team at Alpine Orthopedics and Sports Medicine develops personalized plans that best meet your needs.

Treatment for your ankle pain may include:

• Rest, ice, compression, and elevation
• Activity modification 
• Over-the-counter pain medication
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Bracing or orthotics
• Physical therapy
• Steroid injections
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)

In some cases, the team may recommend surgery to address the underlying cause of your ankle pain. When possible, the team uses arthroscopy for ankle surgery to reduce scarring, post-surgical pain, and recovery time. 

If you have a complex ankle fracture, the team may use screws, plates, or other metal hardware to realign your bones to support healing. They also perform ankle replacement surgery for severe joint damage to restore function and alleviate pain. 

For comprehensive care of your ankle pain, call Alpine Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, or request an appointment online today.