Medial Ankle Pain

The Achilles tendon is the strongest and the largest tendon in our body. This tendon is closely connected with our ankle and a direct blow or impact can injure it. Pain in and around the ankle could be caused due to a number of reasons, and the pain could be medial or lateral.

Acute pain occurs due to an injury and amongst them, the most routine is a sprain - either medial or lateral. The most common reasons for a sprain are injuries sustained while playing sports like football, tennis, basketball, hockey, and athletic events. Although it is painful, it heals within a matter of few weeks.

As opposed to acute pain, it is a long-term complaint and is an indication that the tendons and nerves are under a lot of stress. Whenever weight has to be borne, the ligaments and tendons tend to give away. It can be further aggravated by running and sports.

An injury is one of the most prominent reasons for an ankle strain. In case of an injury or a rolled ankle, the tendons and the nerves in that area are stretched beyond their normal range of motion, which causes them to give away, leading to a tear and consequent agony.

It could be a sprain or a serious impact, causing strain. Problems caused from running and walking are very common.

A fracture can cause severe pain and discomfort. This is an extreme condition where the bone develops cracks or breaks and is followed by an impact on all the surrounding ligaments and tendons. The fracture can be a complete breaking of the bone or a hairline fracture. Even the latter can be very agonizing.

Inflammatory arthritis, where there is inflammation of the joints like rheumatoid arthritis, can lead to problems of the ankle. In addition to this, gout arthritis, spondylitis, and psoriatic arthritis are other medical conditions that could cause pain.

Joint infection naturally causes a substantial amount of agony. However, it is extremely rare. It can only happen in case of bacteria or viruses entering by way of a puncture wound or trauma. As a result of ulcers and abrasions, the skin can break down, which in turn can lead to further problems.

Another slightly uncommon reason is tarsal tunnel syndrome. It involves compression of nerves as they pass under the band meant to support the ankle (referred to as flexor retinaculum).

The treatment depends on the cause and severity of the problem. A trip to the doctor, just to be sure that there is nothing serious, is advisable.

Disclaimer: This HealthHearty article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.