Medial ankle pain refers to discomfort located on the inner side of the ankle. It can be sharp, dull, intermittent, or constant and is often caused by issues related to tendons, ligaments, bones, or nerves in that area. Understanding what causes this type of pain and how to effectively treat it can help you avoid long-term issues and get back to your normal activities quickly and safely.
Common Causes of Medial Ankle Pain
Posterior Tibial Tendonitis
This condition occurs when the posterior tibial tendon, which helps support the arch of your foot, becomes inflamed or torn. It’s often linked to flat feet or overpronation and typically worsens with activity like walking or running.
Medial Ankle Sprains
A sprain on the medial side of the ankle usually involves injury to the deltoid ligament. While less common than lateral sprains, they can occur when the foot rolls outward, stretching or tearing the ligament on the inner side.
Stress Fractures
Stress fractures in the medial malleolus or navicular bone result from repetitive impact activities like running or jumping. These microfractures can cause persistent pain, especially during weight-bearing activity.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
This nerve-related condition occurs when the tibial nerve is compressed as it passes through the tarsal tunnel. Symptoms may include pain, burning, tingling, or numbness along the inner ankle and into the foot.
Accessory Navicular Syndrome
Some people are born with an extra bone or piece of cartilage on the inner side of the foot, known as an accessory navicular. When this bone becomes irritated or inflamed—often from overuse or tight shoes—it can lead to medial ankle pain.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
To accurately diagnose medial ankle pain, a healthcare provider will typically begin with a physical examination and a review of your medical history. They may also order imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to get a clearer picture of the underlying cause.
Treatment Options
Initial treatment usually involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Physical therapy is often recommended to restore strength and flexibility in the ankle. Custom orthotics can help correct structural problems like flat feet, which may be contributing to the issue. In cases involving inflammation or nerve compression, anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections may be used. If conservative treatments fail, surgical intervention might be necessary to repair damaged tissues or decompress a nerve.
Prevention Strategies
Preventing medial ankle pain begins with proper footwear. Shoes with good arch support and cushioning can make a significant difference. Stretching and strengthening exercises for the lower leg and foot muscles are also key to maintaining ankle stability. It’s also important to gradually increase the intensity and duration of your activities to avoid overuse injuries. Paying close attention to your running form and surface can also help prevent recurrent issues.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your medial ankle pain persists despite rest and basic at-home treatments, or if it gets worse over time, it’s important to seek professional care. Delaying proper diagnosis and treatment could result in chronic pain or permanent damage.
Suffering from Medial Ankle Pain?
Medial ankle pain can be frustrating and limit your ability to stay active. However, with the right diagnosis and treatment approach, most people recover fully. If you’re dealing with ongoing ankle discomfort, contact the experts at Innovative Healthcare Centers for a comprehensive evaluation and customized treatment plan to help you get back on your feet—literally.