Chiropractic + Wellness

Ankle pain refers to any type of pain or discomfort in the ankle. This pain could generally be due to an injury, such as a sprain, or due to another health issue. As stated by the National University of Health Sciences, or NUHS, an ankle sprain is one of the most frequent causes of foot pain, making up 85 percent of all ankle injuries. A sprain occurs when the ligaments tear or are overstretched.

Most ankle sprains are lateral sprains, which occur when the foot rolls, causing the ankle to twist toward the ground. This action rips or stretches the ligaments, which connect two bones or cartilages and holds a joint together. A sprained ankle often swells and lumps for a temporary amount of time. However, it might take a couple of weeks to get a severe injury like this to heal completely.

Once healed, the sprained ankle is occasionally permanently weaker and less stable compared to the other ankle. According to a paper released by the American Academy of Family Physicians, or AAFP, the highest risk for ankle sprains includes a previous ankle sprain. Although, ankle sprains are not the only cause of foot pain. Below, we will discuss several common causes of foot and ankle pain as well as their treatment.

The feet are complex structures which function to provide protection and support to the body in relation to the spine and head posture. The feet are essential towards balancing the body’s entire weight, allowing it to walk, run, stand, and, jump. Consequently, foot complications may cause severe issues throughout the spine, hips, knees, and ankles if left untreated.

Individuals who’ve suffered a prior injury or condition may often continue experiencing pain and other symptoms on the surrounding structures of the foot. Bone fractures on the outside end of the ankle can occasionally occur but more often, the ligaments around the anterior and side of the ankle can tear and produce pain as well as visible swelling and bruising on the affected region. Generally, it can take 4-6 weeks to recover from a direct injury but, the ligaments can become full of scar tissue, which is non-elastic and stiff. This can increase the chance of damage or injury, often leading to further sprains. Repeated traumas can influence the mobility of the ankle and cause complications on the joint and other structures, such as the knee and spine.

Chiropractic care can be effective for treating injuries or conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and ankle sprains, among others. Foot health is essential towards establishing the body’s proper support and balance, together with a proper spinal posture. In the presence of foot complications, chiropractic treatment can be used to achieve long lasting health.