Ankle Pain

Ankle problems
Ankle problems can cause a range of symptoms, including:

Pain
Swelling
Stiffness
You don't normally need to see a healthcare professional. New onset or flare-up of a longstanding ankle problem should begin to settle within 6 weeks.


What causes ankle problems?
Ankle problems are fairly common and can be caused by injuries such as tripping or going over on your ankle.
Muscle weakness around the ankle can also cause ankle problems to flare-up now and again. It may also be due to a flare-up of an existing problem.


Can this cause problem anywhere else?
You may feel some pain in the muscles around your calf and foot. This should improve as your ankle problem gets better.

Ankle problems can also cause limping. If the limp is severe, using a walking stick on the opposite side to your ankle problem may help.


How to use a walking stick?
Self-help
Keeping active is an essential part of your treatment and recovery and is the single best thing you can do for your health.


Being physically active throughout your recovery can:
Prevent a recurrence of the problem
Maintain your current levels of fitness – even if you have to modify what you normally do, any activity is better than none
Keep your other muscles and joints strong and flexible
Help you aim for a healthy body weight
It's recommended you stay at or return to work as quickly as possible during your recovery. You don't need to be pain or symptom-free to return to work.


More about keeping active:
Pain treatments
Pain medication can help to reduce the pain and help you move more comfortably, which can help your recovery.
Speak to your community pharmacist or other healthcare professional about taking medication or other methods of pain relief. It's important to take medication regularly.


Resting or moving?
Within the first 24 to 48 hours of onset of an ankle problem you should try to:
Rest your ankle in an elevated position but avoid long spells of not moving at all
Move your ankle gently for 10 to 20 seconds every hour when you're awake

After 48 hours:
Try to use your leg more - exercise really helps your ankle and can relieve pain.
Do whatever you normally would and stay at, or return to work - this is important and is the best way to get better.
When going upstairs, reduce the strain on your ankle by leading with your good leg - use a handrail if available
When going downstairs, reduce the strain on your ankle by leading with your problem leg - use a handrail if available
Avoid sports or heavy lifting until you have less discomfort and good movement. Remember to warm up before sports.


When to speak to your Doctor:
There's been significant trauma, for example a fall from height or direct blow to the ankle
Your ankle is misshapen
Your calf is hot, swollen and tender
You've difficulty putting weight on your leg
You've pain that's worsening