Chronic lateral ankle pain is a condition where you experience persistent pain on the outside (lateral) part of the ankle. This condition is common among athletes and is often linked to frequent ankle injuries, frequently following a serious sprain or fracture.

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Causes of Chronic Lateral Ankle Pain

The most common cause of chronic lateral ankle pain is incomplete healing after a serious sprain. When ligaments that stabilize the ankle joint are damaged and don’t heal properly, the ankle becomes weaker and more prone to chronic pain and further injury.

Chronic lateral ankle pain can also be caused by:

  • A fracture in the bones of the ankle joint
  • Arthritis in the ankle joint
  • Inflammation of the ankle joint lining
  • Nerve injury
  • Scar tissue in the ankle, which can put pressure on the ligaments
  • Torn tendon or tendonitis

Symptoms of Chronic Lateral Ankle Pain

Chronic lateral ankle pain is characterized by swelling, stiffness near the joint, and recurring pain on the outside of the ankle, especially with exercise. The pain may be triggered by walking or playing sports, or it may present as a constant dull ache.

A significant symptom is the feeling of ankle instability. Those with chronic lateral ankle pain often struggle with walking on uneven ground or in high heels and are more likely to experience repeated ankle injuries.

Treatment of Chronic Lateral Ankle Pain

The treatment for chronic lateral ankle pain will depend on the diagnosis from your physician. Conservative treatments may include:

  • Ankle brace
  • Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling
  • Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and restore joint mobility
  • Steroid injections

If the pain is related to a past fracture, immobilization may be recommended to allow the bone to heal.

If conservative treatments are not effective, surgery might be necessary. Surgical options can range from removing loose bone fragments to cleaning the joint surface or repairing damaged ligaments or tendons.

If you are experiencing chronic lateral ankle pain, consult a doctor to develop a treatment plan that can help alleviate the pain associated with ankle injuries.