The ankle is a hinged joint formed by the tibia and fibula bones in the lower leg and the talus bone at the top of the foot. Like other joints in the body, the ankle joint is lined by the synovium, a tissue that allows the joint to move smoothly. When the synovium becomes inflamed, a condition called synovitis develops. This condition is associated with gout and rheumatoid arthritis, but can also be caused by a sudden injury or repetitive overuse of the ankle. Synovitis may lead to redness, swelling, and warmth in the ankle joint, as well as pain in the front or along the sides of the ankle. This can make walking very difficult. If you are experiencing the symptoms of ankle synovitis, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist, who can diagnose and treat your condition.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Joseph D. Ruffo, DPM, PC from New York. Our doctor 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
• 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 one of our offices located in Sea Cliff and Babylon, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.