Are you experiencing ankle pain without any obvious cause? Though this situation may seem strange, it’s not unusual. A study published by Elsevier B.V. estimates that approximately 15% of middle-aged and elderly people experience frequent ankle pain. Although, younger individuals are also susceptible to ankle pain. If you’re experiencing sudden ankle pain without injury, there may be a medical cause for your discomfort. Learn about possible causes for sudden ankle pain & schedule an appointment at Arizona Foot Doctors in Scottsdale.
What can cause ankle pain without injury?
Ankle pain can arise as the result of ill-fitting shoes, strain of the foot from an irregular stretch or exercise, and overuse of the foot without proper rest. Ankle pain is also a symptom or result of many underlying medical conditions, such as the following:
1. Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a condition marked by excessive inflammation in the joints. A healthy immune system is designed to fight off germs in the body. However, when the body mistakenly attacks its own joints as it would attack unwanted germs, the condition is referred to as rheumatoid arthritis. This disease primarily causes pain in the hands and feet, but it can also cause sudden ankle pain without injury. If you experience ankle pain while running or participating in other normal activities and you have no known injuries in the area, RA may be the underlying cause. A podiatrist can assist in managing symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and prevent harsh flares to alleviate ankle pain.
2. Osteoarthritis
Like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis is also associated with ankle pain. Instead of the body attacking its own joints, osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage between two joints wears down and the bones begin to rub against each other. This can lead to sudden ankle pain without injury as the condition develops overtime.
3. Achilles tendinitis
Do you feel ankle pain when walking, even though you don’t recall injuring the area? If the pain is located in the back of the heel, you may be experiencing Achilles tendinitis. This occurs when your Achilles tendon experiences a sudden strain and develops small tears. Although there are no visible signs of injury, you may notice that the ankle feels tender, warm, or even slightly swollen above your ankle. You may be able to minimize the pain by elevating and resting your foot. If recommended by your physician, you may be able to take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory or pain medications.
4. Lupus
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can lead to sudden ankle pain without injury. When the body is impacted by lupus, it attacks its own tissues. This can lead to inflammation and fluid buildup (particularly in the joints), causing ankle pain.
5. Irregular arch of the foot
Flat feet, in which the arch of the foot has a lack of curvature, and cavus feet, in which the arch of the foot has an exaggerated curvature, can change the way you walk. Often, this puts strain on other areas of the foot to compensate for the irregular arch. It is common for the ankles to start feeling this strain and for you to feel pains and aches. When you speak with a podiatrist, they can recommend shoes, inserts for shoes, or custom orthotics that will provide the support you need for the irregular arch.
Schedule an appointment for sudden ankle pain without injury
If you’re experiencing ankle pain without injury, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. Seeking treatment can pinpoint the cause of your ankle pain and prevent further pain or possible injury. We are here to help you get back on your feet by collaborating on a treatment plan with you. Here at Arizona Foot Doctors, we’ve been diagnosing and treating sudden ankle pain without injury for over 35 years. Schedule your appointment online or call today!