Don’t Let Ankle Pain Slow You Down

Find out what you can do to treat and eliminate your ankle pain and discomfort.

Anytime someone experiences ankle pain it can be very unsettling and worrisome. After all, there are many things that could be causing your ankle pain, from something minor to something very serious that requires immediate medical attention from our Butte and Bozeman, MT, podiatrists, Dr. Dallin Greene and Dr. Nathan Judd.

What are the common causes of ankle pain?

You can blame everything from injuries to disorders for ankle problems; however, the most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Strains or sprains
• Osteoarthritis
• Arthritis
• Tendinitis
• Bursitis
• Gout
• Flat feet
• Fracture (requires immediate medical care)
• Dislocation (requires immediate medical care)

If your ankle pain occurred during a sports injury or a car accident it’s important that you see your Butte and Bozeman foot doctor right away as you could potentially be dealing with a fractured ankle. A fractured ankle needs to be properly treated in order to heal fully and to prevent long-term ankle instability.

If you are dealing with joint swelling and tenderness, particularly in your ankles, then you could have arthritis. If your joint ankle pain has gotten worse, is severe, or is persistent then you need to come in for an evaluation so we can determine whether arthritis might be to blame.

How is ankle pain treated?

There are many ways in which we will treat your ankle pain, but it all depends on the root cause. For example, for minor to moderate ankle injuries such as strains and sprains, we may tell you to limit your activities and follow the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, and elevation). Those patients with more severe ankle injuries may have to wear a protective boot, use crutches or receive physical therapy and rehabilitation.

Bursitis and tendinitis are common conditions that cause ankle pain and inflammation. They usually come about due to overuse or performing repetitive motions (a common occurrence in athletes). These two conditions can often be alleviated with rest and by following the RICE method. In severe cases, corticosteroid injections may be administered to reduce swelling and pain. You may also be given an ankle brace to provide support and stabilization.

Arthritis is a long-term condition that has no cure; however, our podiatrist can help create the proper medication and treatment plan that will reduce joint pain and swelling in your feet and ankles for the long run and improve your quality of life. Sometimes supportive footwear, braces, and physical therapy can also help reduce arthritis-related symptoms.

If you are dealing with ankle pain in Butte or Bozeman, MT, then it’s high time you figured out what’s going on so you can get back to what really matters in life. Here at Big Sky Foot & Ankle Institute, we will provide you with the answers, treatments, and peace of mind you need.