Ankle

Why does my ankle hurt?

Your ankle is where three bones meet among a complex arrangement of muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Damage to any one of these structures can result in ankle pain.

Though your ankle joints are built to endure a great amount of stress, they’re also easy to hurt. Medical conditions such as arthritis, along with a host of sports injuries, can cause damage to your ankle.

Ankle pain can range from mild throbbing to excruciating pain that prevents you from taking another step. The expert physicians at Orthopaedic Associates accurately diagnose and treat a wide range of ailments that affect the ankle.

What are common ankle injuries?

Ankle injuries can occur suddenly — from a trip-and-fall accident, for example — or come on gradually. Some of the most common ankle injuries include:

• Foot or ankle fracture (broken bone)
• Achilles tendinitis or tendon tear
• Ankle sprains and strains

Ankle sprains and fractures rank among the most common sports injuries. Depending on the extent of the sprain or fracture, these types of injuries may cause the same general symptoms of pain, swelling, and restricted mobility.

When should I see a doctor for ankle pain?

Minor ankle injuries usually improve with home remedies such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation. However, if your ankle pain or swelling increases, you should call Orthopaedic Associates.

Other signs that you should seek medical care right away include:

• Inability to bear weight on the injured foot
• Immediate and severe pain at the time of injury
• Visible deformity such as a bone sticking out of place

Orthopaedic Associates is the only practice to offer urgent orthopaedic care in the Albany, Georgia, area. If you or a loved one needs urgent care for an ankle injury, don’t hesitate to call Orthopaedic Associates right away.

How do you diagnose and treat ankle injuries?

For your convenience, Orthopaedic Associates offers on-site imaging tests such as digital X-ray and MRI scans. Your doctor may use an imaging test to confirm a diagnosis after they perform a physical exam of your ankle.

Treatment depends on the type and severity of your condition. The team at Orthopaedic Associates is highly trained in the most effective treatments for ankle pain, such as:

• Immobilization with a cast or splint
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Physical therapy

Severe ankle injuries, such as a torn Achilles tendon, may require surgery to repair. The team of skilled orthopaedic surgeons at Orthopaedic Associates are trained in minimally invasive techniques. Call or book an appointment online today.