Ankle braces can help to support a weak ankle joint, as well as increase your mobility and protect the ankle from further injury. Anyone who has problems with plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, or previous ankle joint injuries may find it helpful to wear a brace. Experts believe it is best to wear an ankle brace after an injury, rather than beforehand, as a preventive measure. Constant use of an ankle brace can actually cause more harm than good, as it may prevent the surrounding muscles from gaining strength. Using a brace on occasion, say for a hike on uneven terrain or when playing a sport with a lot of lateral movement, is recommended. After an injury, a good ankle brace should provide support and stability during the healing process. In some cases, depending on the severity of the injury, a nylon boot may be recommended. As there are numerous types of ankle braces available, it’s a good idea to consult a podiatrist who can advise you on which one best suits your needs.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
- Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
- Ankle sprains
- Broken ankles
- Achilles tendinitis
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Stress fractures
- Bursitis
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
