The ankle is a marvel of mobility and stability for the human body, but due to its important role, it’s also the most susceptible to a range of conditions and injuries, both acute and chronic.

In this article, we at Your Next Step will discuss the differences between these two types of ankle ailments and provide expert insight on their treatments.

Common Ankle Conditions and Injuries

Acute ankle injuries such as sprains and breaks often occur suddenly due to trauma or forceful movements. Chronic ankle conditions such as arthritis and tendonitis (and even rare diseases), however, develop gradually over time and may persist or recur:

• Fractures: Breaks in one or more bones in the ankle joint caused by falls or impacts.
• Dislocations: Displacement of the ankle bones from their normal position, usually caused by severe trauma.
• Ankle sprains: Stretching or tearing of ligaments supporting the ankle caused by twisting or rolling the foot.
• Arthritis: Breakdown of cartilage in the ankle joint; pain, stiffness, and inflammation.
• Tendonitis: Inflammation of tendons around the ankle due to overuse or repetitive strain.
• Chronic ankle instability: Persistent instability or giving way of the ankle (following repeated sprains).

Both acute and chronic may require physical therapy and rehabilitation to restore function. However, acute injuries often require immediate intervention to manage pain and prevent further damage, while chronic conditions may involve ongoing management to control symptoms and prevent progression. Let’s explore diagnosis and treatment.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing ankle conditions typically involves a physical examination, medical history review, and imaging studies like X-rays or MRI scans.

After diagnosis, surgery is more likely to be necessary for acute versus chronic ankle conditions to repair fractures or ligaments. But if not, treatment often involves immobilization with braces or casts to stabilize the joint, along with pain management medications.

Chronic ankle conditions, on the other hand, often involve a longer-term management approach, including physical therapy, orthotics, and medications or injections to manage pain and inflammation. In severe cases of chronic ankle conditions, surgery might also be considered to address joint damage or instability.

Dr. Eric Ricefield, Dr. Mark Yagodich, Dr. Aliza V. Eisen, and Dr. Cassandra Stache are eager to assist with all your foot and ankle problems. Solidify your appointment and contact us today!