Ankle Pain Relief Can Be Achieved Through Physical Therapy
Do you experience pain when moving your ankle or putting weight on it while walking? Is your ankle interfering with your daily life? Some people seem to have ankle problems forever, but there is still hope! Physical therapy at Aspen Rehabilitation in Coral Springs, FL can help you relieve ankle pain relief regardless of its cause.
Finding the source of your ankle pain, weakness, or mobility limitations is critical to resolving the issue. Physical therapists excel in this area! Our team will get you the results you need so you can get back to your life!
Why am I experiencing ankle pain?
Ankle disorders can be caused by a variety of factors, but they are most commonly associated with rolling or twisting injuries or possibly untreated sports injuries. Some people’s ankle problems develop gradually as a result of repetitive movements or abnormal gait patterns.
Acute injuries frequently impair your ability to bear weight due to pain, swelling, and loss of range of motion. Even a seemingly minor injury can result in chronic pain and dysfunction, making it difficult to carry out daily activities.
Ankle disorders can have a variety of causes and risk factors, including the following:
Sprained Ankle
A sprain is defined as a ligament overstretching or tearing. Ankle sprains are frequently caused by a faulty step, such as stepping awkwardly on uneven terrain or in a hole. Sprains can also occur as a result of a sudden change in direction in sports.
When the ankle rolls, twists, or turns awkwardly to the outside of the ankle, a “sprain” occurs (i.e., lateral ankle sprain). The ligaments that support the ankle joint are partially or completely ripped as a result of this sudden stretch.
The degree of pain, inflammation, ability to move the joints, and time frame for healing and recovery will all be determined by the severity of the injury. Ankle injuries, regardless of how they occurred, should be evaluated by a physical therapist to begin rehabilitation and ensure no permanent damage has occurred.
Chronic Lateral Ankle Pain
If you have pain on the outside of your ankle, it could be the result of a previous injury that did not heal properly. In most cases, the pain persists due to a change in the range of motion caused by the initial (or subsequent) sprains. In some cases, the ligament(s) were completely ruptured, resulting in joint instability.
As your ankle joints become more unstable or have limitations in range of motion, they can become chronically and persistently painful.
Fractured Ankle
Ankle fractures are most commonly caused by rolling or twisting the ankle and occur in the bony bump on the outside of the ankle (i.e., the lateral malleolus). The lateral malleolus is located at the base of the fibula bone.
The bump on the inside of your ankle (the medial malleolus) is the tibia bone’s bottom and is less commonly fractured.
A trimalleolar fracture is a serious injury that can have long-term effects on your quality of life. The tibia, fibula, and talus bone are all involved in a trimalleolar fracture. The talus is a foot bone located between the tibia and fibula bones.
Ankle fractures may require weeks of rest in order to heal properly.
Arthritis
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rthritis is a common condition characterized by degeneration, inflammation, decreased range of motion, and pain. This condition can affect people of all ages, but it usually gets worse as they get older.
The most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Both types of arthritis damage the cartilage, limiting your ability to walk and move around over time. Both types of arthritis can have a significant impact on your ankle joint and overall function.
Achilles tendinitis or tears
An unexpected strain on the Achilles tendon can result in tiny tears or even a complete rupture. Tears that are less than 50% of the length of the tendon can heal without surgery. It is critical to seek the advice of a trained physical therapist on how to properly rehabilitate this injury.
Resting or pushing too hard too soon often leads to complications, such as scar tissue or chronic weakness and pain.
Achilles tendonitis is frequently associated with an overuse or repetitive stress injury. Tendinitis occurs when the tendons become inflamed, causing swelling and pain, particularly when the affected area is moved.
Physical therapy can help you find relief from ankle pain
If you or a loved one is suffering from ankle pain, motion limitations, or weakness that is interfering with your ability to function, Aspen Rehabilitation can assist!
Our physical therapist will conduct a thorough assessment during your initial visit to determine the source of your discomfort and identify all factors related to your condition. This information will be used to create a personalized treatment plan for you.
Hands-on techniques such as joint mobilization and soft tissue work will be used to relieve pain and restore your range of motion. Our team will do everything possible to relieve your pain and reduce swelling using compression and modalities so you can resume your normal routine.
In addition, your therapist will teach you exercises and stretches to help you regain and maintain joint mobility, as well as improve your balance and strength, so you can get back to doing what you love.
Request an appointment to get rid of ankle pain.
Our physical therapy clinic in Coral Springs, FL can assist you in regaining ankle mobility as well as improving balance, coordination, and strength so you can walk around freely and pain-free!