Everyone experiences joint pain occasionally due to mild injuries; most of the time, the pain disappears without medical intervention. However, if your symptoms interfere with your daily schedule and quality of life, you may need specialized attention. If you are looking for nonsurgical treatments for ankle pain, you may benefit from Westfield Botox at Genesis Orthopedic and Spine.
Why your ankle hurts
The ankle is an intricate joint consisting of muscles, bones, ligaments, and tendons that facilitate jumping, walking, and running. These activities make it susceptible to wear and tear and injuries resulting in ankle pain. Your pain may also be due to an underlying medical disorder that may damage the components of your joint. Factors contributing to ankle pain include tarsal tunnel syndrome (nerve compression), sprains, ankle instability, arthritis, fracture, and Achilles tendonitis. Structural problems such as flat feet can also contribute to ankle pain. The Genesis Orthopedic and Spine offers treatments for all types of ankle pain ranging from instability due to an old ankle sprain to work or sports injury.
When to consult your doctor about ankle pain
In most cases, ankle pain responds to home care remedies like ice, over-the-counter medication, and adequate rest. Elevating the affected foot also may alleviate your symptoms. However, if these remedies fail to work within a few days, you may need specialized care. If your symptoms also deteriorate over time and experience bleeding or swelling in your joint, inform your physician immediately for a physical exam. Failure to seek treatment can result in irreversible joint damage, interfering with your mobility.
How your doctor detects the trigger of your ankle pain
The team examines your foot and ankle during your initial appointment at Genesis Orthopedic and Spine. They check for bruising, pain, and swelling. Additional tests rely on whether you had an injury and the location of your discomfort. Your provider may utilize imaging tests like MRI scans and X-rays to obtain clear images of the tissues and bones in your joint. If they suspect an infection, your doctor may recommend a biopsy. The team takes a sample of your joint tissue and sends it to an onsite lab for analysis.
How you can relieve ankle pain
After diagnosis, your doctor may decide to begin treatment with conservative options like pain medications, rest, and physical therapy. However, if these options are futile, the team may recommend splints and braces to stabilize your joint and relieve pain. You can discuss with your provider the type of braces that suit your lifestyle. Your provider may also recommend joint aspiration, which involves inserting a needle into your ankle and removing excess fluid to relieve swelling and pain. In some cases, steroid and Botox injections may be necessary to minimize the inflammation, allowing you to use your joint.
Preventing the ankle may not always be possible, but specific measures can help minimize your risk. For instance, maintaining a healthy weight, warming up properly, and strengthening your muscles through exercise can lower your risk of injury.
To learn more about the treatments for ankle pain, call the Genesis Orthopedic ad Spine office or schedule an appointment online.
