5 Most Common Ankle Conditions

The Illinois Podiatric Medical Association reports that nearly one of five U.S. adults suffer from at least one problem related to their feet every year, with the majority related to ankle conditions. While over 60 million visits are made to podiatrists annually, that's likely a fraction of the number of foot issues, the experts say, as many people are under the false impression that their feet are supposed to hurt.

The ankle joint supports as much as five times your body weight with every step that you take, which means when there's a problem, you'll know it. Ankle conditions can be rather painful not to mention limiting mobility - these are the most common people experience.

Sprained Ankle

A sprained ankle can occur when it's moved in a way it wasn't meant to, such as rolling, twisting or turning awkwardly. That can stretch or tear ligaments which are responsible for holding the ankle's bones together. Forcing the ligaments outside of what should be their normal range of motion tends to result in this injury. It often causes swelling on the ankle bone along with the pain that can make it difficult or nearly impossible to walk.

Achilles Tendonitis

Overuse of the Achilles tendon, the band of tissue that connects the muscles of the calf to the heel bone, can result in Achilles tendonitis. One of the first signs of it is a mild ache that begins in the back of the leg or above the heel following sports activities like running. It's common in runners who increase the duration or intensity of their run suddenly, rather than gradually, which is why it's so important to warm up first, walking or jogging at a slower pace. If you experience pain while exercising, stop and rest. Prolonged sprinting, running or stair climbing can lead to more severe pain.

Ankle Fractures

Ankle fractures, or broken ankles, have become increasingly common in recent years, likely due to active and aging Baby Boomers. They can occur with simultaneous ligament tears which may happen if you roll your ankle in or out, twist it to the side or apply severe force, such as coming straight down when jumping from a high level. The pain is typically so intense that it prevents you from walking. In severe fractures, you may even see a bone protruding. In that case, or if you can't put any weight on it, medical treatment is necessary. In the meantime, stay off the injured ankle, keep it elevated and apply a cold pack to reduce swelling.

Arthritis

Those who suffer from ankle ligament injuries who don't rest their ankle, continuing activity, risk developing arthritis down the road which will cause stiffness and pain that makes it difficult to walk. It could mean using a walker or a cane will be necessary to get around which is why it's important to stop running or other activity if you injure your ankle until it's healed. If you notice that you're injuring your ankle frequently, it's time to switch to a more low impact activity like walking.

Gout

While gout is more commonly seen in the big toe, it can affect the ankle too. It's caused when uric acid, a waste product, turns into sharp crystals that collect in the joints leading to severe pain and swelling. If this occurs, your doctor will likely prescribe medications, rest and a special diet.