Foot and ankle problems such as injuries, arthritis, congenital and acquired deformities, tendenopathies, heel pain, and nerve damage account for a large percentage of orthopaedic conditions. Your ankle helps to balance and stabilize your body. It’s made up of bones that are supported with muscles and ligaments. Ankle disorders can result from damage to bone, muscle, or soft tissue.
The causes of ankle disorders vary and can include running, jumping, and overuse. Other common causes of ankle sprains and fractures include:
- twisting or rotating the ankle beyond the normal range of motion
- tripping or falling
- landing on the foot with increased force
The symptoms of ankle disorders will vary based on the specific type of injury. Common symptoms include:
- pain
- swelling
- stiffness
- problems moving the ankle
- inability to put any weight on the ankle
- difficulty walking
- bruising