What are the Most Common Causes of Ankle Pain and Swelling?

Ankle pain and swelling can stem from a variety of causes. The most likely culprit of ankle pain and swelling is a sprain. Other possible causes of ankle pain and swelling include breaks and fractures, damage to the tendons or cartilage, and various diseases.

Twisting an ankle inward or outward will result in strain on the ligaments of the ankle joint. The resulting pain and swelling are characteristic of an ankle sprain. Ankle sprains can take from a few weeks to several months to heal, based on the severity. Lack of overall strength in the ankle can lead to recurrent ankle sprains.

Broken bones of the foot and ankle can lead to ankle pain and swelling. Stress and avulsion fractures can both result in ankle pain and swelling. Falls and overuse contribute to the possible causes of fractures and broken bones in the ankle and foot region. In severe cases, broken bones of the foot and ankle may need surgical repair.

Various conditions affecting the tendons of the ankle and foot can lead to ankle pain and swelling. The Achilles tendon can rupture, or detach from the bones of the ankle, causing excruciating pain. Tendinitis is another possible cause of inflammation and pain in the ankle. Occurring as a result of overuse or strain on the tendons, tendinitis typically requires continual treatment to prevent recurrent pain and swelling.

Arthritic conditions affecting the ankle joint can lead to ankle pain and swelling. Osteoarthritis, septic arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis are a few of the arthritic conditions that can result in overall ankle discomfort. Pain and swelling with arthritic conditions is a result of worn ankle cartilage, bacterial infection or inflammation of the joint.

Gout represents another possible cause of ankle pain and swelling. Considered an arthritic condition, gout also results in redness and tenderness of the joint. Occurring as a result of too much uric acid in the body, gout is a painful condition that requires proper treatment from a physician.

If there is redness and tenderness in conjunction with pain and swelling of the ankle, a medical professional should be consulted to check for infection. In addition, the inability to put weight on the affected ankle requires an x-ray to examine the joint and bones of the ankle to determine the cause of the pain and swelling. Typically, pain and swelling of the ankle can be treated at home with ice, rest, compression and elevation.