Ankle Pain in Madison, OH

The experienced chiropractors at French Chiropractic and Wellness Center specialize in treatments to improve mobility and promote healing after strains, sprains and other causes of ankle pain. By using advanced techniques, we help the residents of Painesville, Mentor and surrounding towns in Ohio regain their ability to walk and enjoy activities.

What Is Ankle Pain?

The ankle consists of a complex system of ligaments, bones, muscles and tendons. Ankles are strong enough to handle your body weight, but because of this they can be susceptible to pain and injury.

Pain may be present at the inner or outer ankle, or along the Achilles tendon, which links lower leg muscles to the heel bone. Moderate ankle discomfort can be addressed with home treatments though it may take some time for the condition to improve. Those suffering from severe ankle pain should see a doctor, particularly if the pain occurs after an injury.

Causes of Ankle Pain

Ankle pain comes as the result of an injury to the tendons, ligaments or bones in the ankle. Sprains are common causes of ankle pain. Sprains occur when the ankle joint is forcefully twisted, and this can result in the overextending or tearing of ankle ligaments. Sprains may occur while engaging in rigorous activity, or while walking on an uneven surface.

Typical causes of ankle pain include

• Achilles tendinitis
• Rupture of Achilles tendon
• Avulsion fracture
• Bone spurs
• Broken foot or ankle
• Bursitis
• Gout
• Osteoarthritis
• Pseudogout
• Reactive arthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Septic arthritis
• Ankle sprain
• Strains or sprains
• Stress fracture
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome

How We Treat Ankle Pain

Ankle pain makes it challenging to engage in everyday activities, such as walking. The discomfort is usually due to an ankle sprain, which can occur due to twisting while engaged in athletic activities, a misstep while walking in high heels or failing to accurately calculate a curb or step.

The consequence is extensive bruising and inflammation caused by torn ligaments that span from the leg to the foot. Sometimes, the ankle bone may be broken.

It takes four to six weeks to recover from a sprained ankle. During this time, the ankle is prone to additional spraining. Pain usually subsides before the injury is completely healed, and because of this, patients can easily re-injure their ankle. The formation of scar tissue is likely, and loss of elasticity of ligaments can apply additional pressure to the ankle area. Reoccurring ankle injuries, as well as reduced muscle stimulation due to limited mobility while recovering, can affect the way a person walks and shifts weight to knees, feet and ankles. This can overtax the leg and spine and increase the odds of sustaining other injuries. A range of physical conditions can make sprains more likely to occur. Foot distortions such as flat feet due to collapsed arches, bunions and hammer toes may cause the incorrect displacement of weight to more delicate portions of the ankle, which can cause the ankle to twist.

For years, our chiropractors have helped patients address their ankle pain by working toward permanent healing and long-term relief. Prior to making a diagnosis, our chiropractors evaluate a patient’s medical history, consider all symptoms, conduct a physical examination, look for any muscle and mechanical imbalances, flat feet, pronation, and associated cartilage issues. Effective chiropractic treatment of ankle pain consists of manual treatment of the ankle joints, rehabilitative exercises, heat and ice. Bandaging may be necessary for patients with torn ligaments to help stabilize the affected area and avoid future tearing. Rehabilitation after the acute phase of treatment is critical for returning to normal functioning levels and avoiding repeated sprains. Our chiropractors will suggest lifestyle changes, required exercises and appropriate footwear to promote proper healing.

Isn’t it time you tried chiropractic care for you and your family? If you are experiencing any of the common symptoms of ankle pain, please contact our office now to schedule an appointment.