How To Know if Your Ankle Pain Is Serious

How To Know if Your Ankle Pain Is Serious

Does all ankle pain warrant care from a medical professional?

Maybe you noticed a twinge of pain in your ankle after running on the treadmill or stepping off the curb wrong. Unfortunately, the ankle is delicate and prone to injury. While ankle sprains are often the most common cause of ankle pain, it’s important to know what’s going on and when your symptoms warrant seeing our Norridge, IL, podiatrist Dr. Laura Pickard.

What can cause ankle pain?

Ankle pain can affect one or both ankles at any age. Even minor pain can make it difficult for someone to walk around or put weight on the affected foot. Along with a sprained ankle, other causes of ankle pain include,

  • Strained muscles or ligaments 
  • Bone fractures 
  • Flat feet 
  • Achilles tendonitis 
  • Bursitis 
  • Chronic lateral ankle pain 
  • Arthritis (causes long-term and worsening ankle pain and stiffness) 
  • Gout 

As you can see, many of these issues will require medical attention to ensure that you are giving your ankle the proper care and rest it needs to heal properly. Chronic conditions such as arthritis will often require long-term medication and care from our Norridge, IL, podiatrist to slow the progression of the disease and prevent complications. Other foot problems may require wearing a protective brace or boot to take the weight off the foot and ankle until it heels. 

What are the symptoms of ankle pain?

Ankle pain can develop anywhere in the ankle, and the location can often help our podiatrist Dr. Pickard determine what might be causing your symptoms. Along with pain, you may also notice swelling, stiffness, redness or difficulty putting weight on the ankle. If your pain is the result of an accident or fall, you may have noticed a snapping or popping sound at the moment of impact. If so, it’s important that you come to our practice right away for an evaluation.

When should I see a doctor for my ankle pain?

If you are dealing with severe pain or swelling, or if you can’t put weight on the ankle, you should avoid any activities that exacerbate your symptoms and schedule an immediate appointment with our team. The sooner you seek treatment the faster you can get rid of your pain. 

Is ankle pain becoming a problem? Dealing with pain after an injury? If so, our Norridge, IL, podiatrist Dr. Pickard and the team at Norridge Foot Clinic can help you diagnose and treat your ankle pain. To schedule an immediate appointment, call us at (773) 625-2211.

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