Most Common Ankle Injuries

Our ankles are an essential part of our body’s structure, and unfortunately, they are often a part that gets overlooked. Three bones meet in the ankle, including the tibia and fibula and the talus of your foot. These 3 bones are held together by ligaments at the ankle joint. These strong elastic bands are what keeps the bones in place and allow for the ankle to have motion. Tendons attach the muscle to the bones and make the ankle and foot be able to move. Because your ankles are such a huge part in getting from place to place, ankle injuries are extremely common. Something as small as walking on uneven surfaces or going for a run in rough terrain will cause unbearable ankle pain. It is estimated that over 25,000 Americans sprain their ankle every day. The odds are eventually you will end up with some kind of ankle injury in your life, so let’s take a look at some of the most common ankle injuries there are and what you need to do if you end up having one.

Types of Ankle Injuries

Types of ankle injuries depend on the kind of tissue that is damaged after an accident. The main types of tissue are bone, ligament, or tendon. If there happens to be a fracture, it means that there is a clean break or small tiny cracks in one or more bones. A sprain is when a ligament is damaged from being stretched more than its normal range of motion.

What Are the Main Causes of Ankle Injuries?

An ankle injury is caused when a joint in the ankle is twisted from its normal position. Injuries are caused by accidents or overusing a specific tendon or muscle. While the majority of ankle injuries are caused by sporting activities and exercise, they can also be caused by walking on rough terrain, and putting the ankle in an unnatural position. High-heels and uncomfortable shoes also play a role in injuring the ankle. Other causes of ankle injuries include:

• Tripping or falling
• Sudden impacts like a car accident
• Landing awkwardly after jumping

Main Symptoms of an Ankle Injury

The symptoms of a fracture or sprain are similar to each other. Because of their similarity, fractures are often mistaken for sprains. That is why it is critical to seek medical advice from a professional if you experience intense pain in the ankle. Common signs of an ankle injury include:

• Foot or Ankle Pain
• Inability to Walk or Bear Weight
• Swelling
• Bruising

A sprain is usually associated with stiffness, while a fracture causes tenderness to the touch. The ankle may also look deformed and out of place.

Most Common Ankle Injuries

Sprained Ankle

By far, the most common injury to the ankle is a sprained ankle. A minor sprain may have you hobbling around for a few weeks, while a more intense one may need immediate surgery to avoid permanent damage. If you are participating in sports, rigorous activities, or have a job that requires you to be constantly on your feet, it is essential that you have constant check-ups with a foot and ankle specialist. Proper-fitting shoes and some personal time focusing on stretching and strengthening the ankle will also help prevent ankle sprains.

Achilles Tendonitis

The largest tendon in your body is the Achilles tendon, and it attaches the muscle in your calf to the heel. If it experiences constant trauma from overuse or overstress, little tears will develop and lead to excruciating pain and inflammation. Runners are the usual victims of Achilles tendonitis but will easily be diagnosed and treated by an ankle specialist at Global Podiatry.

We highly recommend that anyone who engages in daily activities like running consider using orthotics prescribed by a specialist. Noticing the signs is essential. If you notice pain and inflammation in the back of the ankle, you need to give it a good rest so that any tiny tears will heal.

Stress Fractures

To add to the list of the most common ankle injuries are stress fractures. These are tiny cracks in your bones that will develop over time. These types of injuries are common among those who constantly walk or run on hard surfaces as well as those who push themselves too much. To prevent stress fractures, we recommend that you wear the proper footwear and always listen to your body, and not overdoing it. When you are experiencing unexplained pain in the feet, it’s a good idea to have us at Global Podiatry to check it out. When you avoid treatment for small fractures, the cracks will begin to grow larger, and the pain will become unbearable.

What Should You Do After Injuring Your Ankle?

After experiencing trauma or pain in your ankle, it is crucial that you seek medical attention right away. Some things you can do at home to lessen swelling and pain is R.I.C.E: Rest, Ice, compression, and elevation. To begin, make sure that your ankle is elevated. Never leave ice on your ankle for more than 15 to 20 minutes. Do not put any weight on your ankle and immediately go to Global Podiatry for the proper diagnoses and treatment. Avoid further damages by getting help as soon as possible; the professionals at Global Podiatry have the expertise and tools to get you back on your feet in no time.

Contact Global Podiatry if you are Experiencing Pain in your Ankle(s)

You are constantly on your feet, and when in pain, it will take a toll on your daily life no matter the activity you are partaking in. You shouldn’t have to live in constant pain. When you are experiencing unbearable pain and need the best podiatry clinic in Chicagoland, contact Global Podiatry right away!