Ankle pain is a common issue that can affect your ability to walk, work, and stay active. It may develop suddenly from an injury or gradually from overuse, poor foot mechanics, or improper footwear. Addressing ankle pain early can help prevent chronic problems and reduce the risk of further injury.

Factors that may cause ankle pain:

  • Previous ankle sprains or injuries

  • Poor foot mechanics (flat feet, high arches, overpronation, supination)

  • Weak ankle or lower-leg muscles

  • Improper or worn-out footwear

  • Overuse or sudden increase in activity

  • High-impact sports or repetitive strain

  • Hard or uneven walking surfaces

  • Tight calf muscles or limited ankle mobility

  • Arthritis or joint degeneration

  • Tendon irritation or inflammation

  • Ligament laxity or instability

Common Types of Ankle Pain

Ankle Sprains

  • Injury to the ligaments that support the ankle, often caused by rolling or twisting the foot. Can lead to instability or recurring pain if not treated properly.

Chronic Ankle Instability

  • Ongoing weakness or “giving way” of the ankle after repeated sprains or ligament injury.

Tendonitis (Peroneal, Tibialis Posterior, Tibialis Anterior, Achilles)

  • Irritation or inflammation of the tendons surrounding the ankle, often caused by overuse, poor biomechanics, flat feet, or high arches.

Achilles Tendinopathy

  • Pain at the back of the ankle where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel, commonly worsened by activity or tight calf muscles.

Osteoarthritis of the Ankle

  • Joint degeneration that causes stiffness, swelling, and pain with movement or weight-bearing.

Impingement Syndrome

  • Pinching of soft tissues at the front or back of the ankle, often causing sharp pain during certain movements.

Fracture-Related Pain

  • Ongoing discomfort or stiffness following an ankle fracture or surgical recovery

When To Seek Our Care

  • Persistent or recurring ankle pain — including pain in the morning, after rest, or during walking, work, or exercise.

  • Swelling, stiffness, or reduced motion that affects daily activities.

  • Instability or repeated ankle sprains, including the feeling that your ankle “gives out.”

  • Pain after a previous injury or fracture, even months later.

  • Tenderness along ankle tendons (inside, outside, or back of the ankle, including the Achilles).

  • Difficulty walking on uneven ground or new pain related to changes in footwear or activity levels.

  • A recommendation from your doctor to pursue pedorthic care for bracing, orthotics, or gait assessment.

 

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