What causes ankle joint pain?
May 10, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
If ankle joint pain is caused by degenerative ankle joint disease, medications such as chondroitin sulfate with calcium tablets and glucosamine hydrochloride capsules should be taken as directed by a physician. If the cause is Achilles tendinitis, treatment may include ibuprofen sustained-release capsules or naproxen tablets, or surgical removal of inflamed tissue around the Achilles tendon. If the pain results from osteoarthritis, treatments such as diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, heat therapy, or joint fusion surgery may be used.
Ankle joint pain can generally be divided into two categories: physiological factors and pathological factors. Common pathological causes include Achilles tendinitis and osteoarthritis. Appropriate management methods can be selected based on the specific cause. A detailed analysis is as follows:
I. Non-disease Factors
If the pain results from aging, frequent intense exercise, or weight-bearing activities leading to degenerative changes in the ankle joint, medications that nourish joint cartilage—such as chondroitin sulfate with calcium tablets, glucosamine hydrochloride capsules, and sodium hyaluronate injection—may be used under medical guidance for treatment and regulation.
II. Disease Factors
1. Achilles Tendinitis
If inflammation due to Achilles tendinitis irritates the ankle area, medications such as diclofenac diethylamine gel, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, or naproxen tablets may be used according to medical advice to relieve pain. Additionally, elevating the ankle and minimizing stretching of the Achilles tendon can help. If medication proves ineffective, surgical removal of inflamed tissue around the tendon may be considered based on a doctor's recommendation.
2. Osteoarthritis
If stiffness and swelling in the ankle joint are caused by osteoarthritis, immobilization and rest are required. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, acetaminophen sustained-release tablets, or aspirin enteric-coated tablets, should be used as directed by a physician. Physical therapies such as heat treatment and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) may also be beneficial. If drug therapy fails to achieve desired results, surgical options such as joint fusion or joint replacement surgery may be recommended by a doctor.
In addition, ankle pain may also result from fractures, gout, bone tumors, or other causes. Patients are advised to seek timely evaluation at an orthopedic department for accurate diagnosis.
