Ankle Tendon Pain

Several main tendons are located in the ankle, including the Achilles tendon, the largest and strongest in the body, the anterior and posterior tibial tendons and the peroneal tendon (inside part of the ankle). People can suffer from several types of ankle tendon pain such as strains, tendinitis, tendon sprains, bruises and even ruptured or torn tendons. Treatment can include topical applications, medications and rehabilitation exercises.

Effects of Rest & Ice

• People with tendon pain, such as sprains or tendinitis, in their ankles are often told to rest and stay off their feet as much as possible. This ensures the injury and pain does not get any worse. Ice can help control inflammation and pain. Ice causes vasoconstriction that slows the movement of blood flow and lymph fluids, which can cause swelling. Ice can be applied with ice packs to keep the coldness compressed against the injury. Elevating the feet above the heart can also control inflammation.

Types of Medical Treatment

• Ibuprofen, naproxen and other anti-inflammatory medications can also control inflammation and pain. These medications are Cox-2 inhibitors. They prevent Cox-2 enzymes and prostaglandins, which is the body's natural reaction, from fully responding to an ankle injury or strain. Topical ointments such as Bengay may also provide some relief for ankle pain, particularly mild strains. Doctors may provide steroids for more severe injuries or pain.

Other Types of Treatment

• Simple stretching exercises can help relieve ankle pain. For example, a person can stand near a wall, move one foot back and stretch her Achilles heel, which can help relieve pain. Stretching can promote blood flow to the ankle tendon after inflammation has been reduced or subsided. Performing light calf raises can also foster blood flow to the area. According to Injurytreatment.com, strengthening programs should start only when the injury is not painful to touch. Massaging the ankle can also alleviate pain and inflammation by relieving stiffness.

Warning

• People should be particularly careful with Achilles tendon pain as it can lead to a ruptured Achilles tendon. Besides weightlifters, sprinters can be particularly vulnerable to ruptured Achilles tendons. Dr. Stephen M. Pribut, a podiatric sports medicine specialist, says, "forces up to 12 times body weight may arise during sprinting." Sudden increases in training or speed often cause Achilles or ankle tendon pain or injuries. Full extensions on calf raises (a weightlifting exercise) using heavy weights can also cause ankle tendon pain or injuries.

Time Frame

• There is no set time frame from overcoming ankle tendon pain from a sprain or injury. People who take a proactive approach during the healing process are likely to recover more quickly. Also, ankle tendon pain from more severe injuries can take longer to heal.