The ankle is a complex hinge joint that is formed by the tibia and fibula bones of the lower leg and the talus bone of the foot. The ligaments connect the bones, and the tendons connect the muscles to the bones. This intricate system plays a vital role in your ability to move and provides stability and flexibility. It can be susceptible to a variety of issues, which can lead to experiencing sharp pain.
Causes of sharp ankle pain
Sharp pain in your ankle can be caused by a variety of issues ranging from acute injuries to chronic conditions. Understanding the underlying issue is essential to get an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Common issues can include:
- Sprained ankle — A sudden twist or turn can cause the ligaments to stretch or tear, which can cause sharp pain.
- Achilles tendinitis — Inflammation of the Achilles tendon can be caused by overuse or wearing improper footwear.
- Fractured ankle — A break in one or more of the ankle bones can result from a trauma or fall. This break can cause sharp pain and swelling and make it difficult to move your ankle.
- Gout — Gout is caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in a joint, including the ankle. This accumulation can cause intense, sudden pain and swelling.
- Bursitis — The inflammation of the bursae causes bursitis. The bursae are small fluid-filled sacs that help cushion your joints.
- Plantar fasciitis — Plantar fasciitis primarily affects the bottom of the foot; however, it can also contribute to ankle pain.
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome — Tarsal tunnel syndrome is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist. Compression of the tibial nerve inside the tarsal tunnel in the ankle can cause sharp pain, tingling or numbness.
- Stress fracture — Repetitive stress on your ankle can cause tiny cracks in your bone. These stress fractures can cause sharp pain during activity.
- Osteoarthritis — Osteoarthritis is caused by the wear and tear of the ankle joint and, over time, can lead to pain, stiffness and even reduced mobility.
- Rheumatoid arthritis — Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that can cause joint inflammation, including in the ankle.
- Tendinitis — Inflammation of the tendons in the ankle can lead to you experiencing sharp pain that can worsen when you move.
Treatment options for sharp ankle pain
The appropriate treatment for addressing your sharp ankle pain can depend on the underlying issue. Common treatment options can include:
- Rest and immobilization — Resting and immobilizing your affected ankle with a brace or a cast can help promote healing. This can be especially beneficial in cases of sprains, fractures or stress fractures.
- Ice and elevation — Applying an ice pack to the affected ankle and keeping it elevated can help reduce swelling and alleviate your pain.
- Medications — NSAIDs can help you manage your pain and reduce inflammation associated with conditions like tendinitis, arthritis and bursitis.
- Physical therapy — Physical therapy can be a beneficial inclusion into treatment to help restore your mobility, strength and stability. A physical therapist will design a customized treatment plan to address the specific issues causing your ankle pain.
- Orthotics — Custom or over-the-counter orthotic inserts can provide you with additional support and help alleviate pressure on your ankle joints.
- Corticosteroid injections — Depending on the underlying issue, your health care provider may recommend a corticosteroid injection. These injections can help reduce inflammation from conditions like arthritis or bursitis.
- Surgical intervention — In cases of severe fractures, ligament tears or certain other conditions, surgical intervention may be required to help restore your normal function.
Physical therapy techniques for sharp ankle pain
Physical therapy can be incredibly effective in helping address sharp ankle pain, boost mobility and potentially help prevent future injuries. Beneficial therapeutic modalities can include:
- Manual therapy — Manual therapy is a hands-on technique that is performed to manipulate joints and soft tissue. Manual therapy for ankle pain can include joint mobilization to help improve joint mobility and manipulations to help reduce pain.
- Myofascial release — Myofascial release can help release tension in the fascia. This can help release adhesions (bands of scar tissue), improve flexibility and reduce pain in the affected ankle.
- Ergonomic training — Ergonomic training can help you improve the biomechanics of your daily activities to reduce the strain on your ankle. Proper body mechanics can help reduce pain and help prevent further injury.
- Therapeutic exercises — Therapeutic exercises can be tailored to your specific needs, helping to strengthen the muscles surrounding your ankle, improving flexibility and overall stability.
Effective treatment for your sharp ankle pain can involve integrating multiple techniques. Physical therapy can provide you with a personalized approach, tailored to your specific diagnosis and individual needs.
Take your first step toward lasting relief from sharp ankle pain with Panther Physical Therapy
Our dedicated team at Panther Physical Therapy understands that each person’s journey toward recovery from sharp ankle pain is unique. We take a comprehensive, patient-centered approach to addressing the underlying issue of your sharp ankle pain, and we strive to help alleviate your discomfort and restore you to doing your daily activities with ease. We continue to make strides in helping to improve the well-being of those facing the challenges of sharp ankle pain.
Call us or request an appointment today to treat your ankle pain.