Exercising is an important part of your physical and mental health. In fact, it is recommended that adults spend at least 150 minutes doing moderate to intense aerobic activity, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week. There are a number of benefits to getting regular exercise. While some aches and pains here and there may not be anything to worry about, persistent ankle pain can dramatically impact your workout regimen. Below are some of the common causes of ankle pain while exercising.
Common Causes of Ankle Pain While Exercising
Exercising can put a lot of pressure on your ankles which can result in pain. Ankle pain can come in many forms, including sharp pains, aches, instability, stiffness, tenderness, and bruising. Below are some of the common causes of ankle pain.
Sprain or Strain:
One of the most common reasons you experience ankle pain while exercising is due to a strain or sprain. An ankle sprain occurs when a muscle or tendon in your ankle is overstretched or torn. Whereas an ankle sprain occurs when the damage is done to one of your ankle’s ligaments. Strains and sprains often happen during a workout or other physical activity. Minor strains and sprains can be taken care of at home. However, if the pain persists for more than a few days, it’s time to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Stress Fracture:
Stress fractures occur when your muscles cannot absorb the shock from repetitive physical impact. This causes small cracks in your bones that are referred to as stress fractures. One of the most well-known forms of a stress fracture is shin splints. Untreated stress fractures can cause major issues and result in a lot of pain. Avoid exercise and see a professional for help as it can take up to 6 weeks to heal if taken care of promptly.
Tendonitis:
This occurs when a tendon in your ankle or foot becomes inflamed. The inflammation can cause the tendon to swell, tear, or fray. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including unsupportive footwear, excessive use, increasing your workout intensity too fast, bad form, or issues with the structure of your feet. Because there are a variety of causes of ankle tendonitis, finding the root cause is crucial in reducing your pain while exercising. Talk with a skilled podiatrist about your ankle pain so they can help determine the root cause.
Arthritis:
This condition is often associated with older age, but arthritis can impact people at any age. There are multiple types of arthritis and they each result in weakened or damaged joints. This can cause pain, stiffness, and a lack of mobility. Taking action early on is the best way to combat the symptoms of arthritis. Talk with a podiatrist about a treatment plan that can allow you to stay active without all of the pain.
Treating Ankle Pain
Exercise can take a lot out of your ankles due to the amount of pressure placed on them. Ankle pain can result from an acute injury, overuse, or even an untreated issue from a prior injury. While minor ankle pain may subside within a few days after some rest, some pain can linger on. If you experience ankle pain for more than a few days, it’s time to talk to a professional.
The team at Foot & Ankle Concepts, Inc. is skilled in treating ankle pain. The ankle pain treatment specialists have helped patients who have experienced ankle pain from arthritis, osteoarthritis, stress fractures, flat feet, sprains, and other ankle injuries. For the most effective treatment options, contact the team Foot & Ankle Concepts, Inc. as they are the top experts in podiatry in Oxnard.
