Ankle pain
Understanding ankle pain
Understanding the severity of your injury is crucial to address the issue before it worsens. Here are five common causes of ankle pain and how osteopathy can help.
Ankle Sprain: Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments of the joint stretch or tear due to sudden movements, causing overstretching and tearing. Sprains are graded from 1 to 3 based on severity, with grade 3 requiring surgery.
Overuse Injury: Overuse injuries are typical in sports and result from biomechanical issues or increased stress on the joint during exercise. Inappropriate footwear can exacerbate the problem, putting extra strain on the ankle.
Broken Ankles: Broken ankles, where the ankle bone fractures, are less common than sprains. These injuries can happen on uneven surfaces or by stepping on an object that applies excessive pressure. Depending on the fracture's size, surgery may be necessary.
Ankle Arthritis: This degenerative disease affects the cartilage of the ankle joint, causing reduced flexibility and increased susceptibility to sprains. Ankle arthritis can be prevented through a healthy lifestyle and may result from previous injuries.
Ankle Spurs: Ankle spurs are small calcium deposits that form on the ankle joint's underside. They are a normal sign of aging and can be caused by injury or chronic inflammation. Treatment may include anti-inflammatory medications, lifestyle changes, or surgery for severe cases.
An osteopath can help identify the cause of ankle pain and provide manual therapy for treatment. They will conduct a comprehensive examination, including palpation and range of motion tests, to pinpoint the issue. Manual therapy, such as stretching, joint mobilizations, and spinal mobilizations, can alleviate pain. An osteopath can also recommend exercises and stretches to prevent future injuries. Make a booking online with one of our osteopaths to find out more.