Why am I feeling outer ankle pain?

Answering this question can be tough for many of us to do on our own. Fortunately, physical therapists can help pinpoint the reason you’re feeling outer, or lateral, ankle pain. 

If you’re feeling this type of pain, you aren’t alone; up to 15% of adults are experiencing ankle pain at any given time. Physical therapists are trained to identify and treat issues with the human musculoskeletal system, so they’re perfectly placed to help you figure out the cause of your outer ankle pain.

Common causes of outer ankle pain

There are many structures that make up the ankle, and a problem with any one of them can lead to pain and other symptoms. People who feel pain on the outside of their ankle may have conditions such as: 

• Inversion sprains — This type of ankle sprain occurs when the foot rolls inward under the ankle. It results in overstretched or torn ankle ligaments. 

• Peroneal tendinitis — This is an issue that happens when your peroneal tendon is inflamed. Popping sensations, swelling and lateral ankle pain are common symptoms of this condition. 

• Ankle osteoarthritis — This condition is characterized by inflammation in the ankle joint. Ankle osteoarthritis is typically caused by natural wear and tear on the ankle over time. 

Factors that can increase your risk of lateral ankle pain

Some people might be more susceptible to lateral ankle pain than others. Some of the factors that can increase your risk of this type of pain are: 

• Obesity.
• Doing lots of running or other repetitive activities. 
• Not stretching before physical activity. 
• Wearing old or poorly fitted shoes. 
• Working or moving on uneven surfaces. 
• Previous ankle injuries.

Find treatment for your ankle pain at Armor Physical Therapy

Is the outside of your ankle in pain? You can find assistance for your pain at Armor Physical Therapy. Our specialists can do a free screening for you, and this service can reveal the root cause of your ankle pain. Additionally, we excel at constructing personalized therapy plans that may include therapy techniques such as: 

• Gait evaluations
• Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM)
• Cupping
• Blood flow restriction training
• Joint mobilization
• Therapeutic exercises
• Myofascial release
• Shoe and orthotic recommendations

We can even help you treat your ankle from home with our at-home care or virtual therapy services. 

Contact us today for more information about ankle issues we can help you treat or to schedule an initial appointment.