Ankle Tendinitis

The human ankle is a complex joint system composed of three separate joints in the area where the foot and leg come together. These joints must be strong enough to support the weight of the entire body. Increased strength leads to increased stability, which allows the entire body to meet higher weight-bearing, mobility, and adaptability standards. The ankle, along with the foot, enables us to perform basic human functions like standing, walking, running, and jumping while also serving as a ground connection. Its physiology enables it to withstand the stress of our body weight while also adapting and reacting quickly to changes in the environment and walking surface.

What Causes Tendinitis of the Ankle?

Tendinitis of the ankle is caused when the connective tissues in the ankle become inflamed. Tendons connect the muscles of the leg and foot to the ankle bones, anchoring these muscles and making them capable of flexing and extending. The tendons of the ankle consist of the peroneals, anterior tibialis, and Achilles tendon. Any of these tissues can become inflamed and cause pain. There are four different types of tendinitis in the ankle: Achilles tendinitis, Posterior tibialis tendinitis, peroneal tendinitis, and anterior tibialis tendinitis. Treatment is unique to each condition, and only a medical specialist will be able to give an accurate diagnosis after a thorough evaluation is performed.

In a majority of cases, tendinitis is caused by overuse. Ankle tendonitis is commonly caused by:

Athletic activities that strain the ankle and foot (like soccer and running).
Work injuries involve repetitive tasks, such as climbing stairs up and down.
Sudden impact or trauma to the ankle.
Individuals with pre-existing conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis.

Your specialist will perform a thorough physical examination, go over your personal and family medical history, and may order testing like an X-ray, CT imaging scan, or Ultrasound to identify the precise underlying cause of your symptoms.

Signs and Symptoms of Ankle Tendinitis

Tenderness and pain directly over the joint are the most common symptoms of ankle tendonitis. Other common symptoms include:

Pain that may radiate down the foot or up the lower leg
Burning sensation during activities
Weakness of the affected area may increase as swelling becomes worse
Loss of range of motion.

Your symptoms can be exacerbated by strenuous or vigorous types of activity or wearing ill-fitting shoes.

Medicine Intervenes

The following are procedures and plans of care most commonly given to individuals who have ankle tendinitis:

Rest and Ice
NSAID: Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
Steroid injections to reduce swelling
A prescription of pain medication to alleviate pain
Splinting may be used to help speed up recovery.

If you’d like to learn more about the ankle tendinitis treatment options available at Redefine Healthcare, please call one of our offices or use our simple online scheduling system to make an appointment with an experienced physician.

Prognosis

Many people experience a full recovery from ankle tendinitis. Once the inflammation and pain begin to subside, motion and strength will begin to be restored. The individual will slowly be able to resume daily activities. Instructions will be provided by the physician on how to return to daily activities, placing limitations on repetitions.

Have been under the care of Dr Freeman when I started and now under Dr. Cerrelo. Both doctors have only my best interest and quality of life as their main focus. I have numerous herniated disc and other health issues that have tortured me daily. Dr. Carrillo has me on minimum medication and to a point where I can enjoy each day. Highly recommend trying them if at wits end.

Peter

Page Updated on May 20, 2022 by Dr. Freeman (Pain Management Specialist) of Redefine Healthcare

Dr. Eric D. Freeman is a top-rated, best-in-class pain management doctor. He is a nationally recognized pain relief specialist and is among the top pain care doctors in New Jersey and the country. He is an award-winning expert and contributor to prominent media outlets.

Dr. Eric D. Freeman has been recognized for his thoughtful, thorough, modern approach to treating chronic pain. He has been named a “top pain management doctor in New Jersey” and one of “America’s Top Physicians” for advanced sports injury treatments.

What Causes Tendinitis of the Ankle?

Signs and Symptoms of Ankle Tendinitis

Medicine Intervenes

Prognosis

Union

Edison

Paterson

West Caldwell

Bayonne

Freehold

Bloomfield

West Orange