How do healthcare providers treat ankle pain?

How do healthcare providers treat ankle pain?

Most ankle injuries heal with at-home treatments. More severe injuries may require surgery. Treatment depends on what’s causing ankle pain. Common treatments for ankle pain include:

• Braces and splints: An ankle brace may relieve pain and stabilize your ankle. Some braces are better for certain activities. Ask your provider to recommend one that works best for your lifestyle.
• Joint aspiration: During this procedure, your provider inserts a needle into the joint and removes excess fluid. Joint aspirations relieve pain and swelling.
• Medications: Several types of medication can reduce inflammation and relieve ankle pain. Drugs to treat arthritis and gout can significantly reduce pain and swelling.
• Orthotic inserts: Orthotics are inserts that fit into your shoes. You can buy them from the store, or your provider can custom-make them for your feet. Orthotics support and stabilize the foot while ensuring proper alignment.
• Physical therapy (PT): A customized PT program will help you improve flexibility and strengthen muscles that support your ankle. Your physical therapist will create a PT plan with exercises and stretches designed just for you. Be sure to do your prescribed exercises and stretches regularly.
• Steroid injections: Your provider uses a needle to inject anti-inflammatory medication directly into your joint. Cortisone shots reduce inflammation and pain.
• Surgery: A wide range of ankle surgery procedures can repair torn ligaments or tendons. Some options relieve arthritis pain or correct flatfeet. Ankle joint replacement surgery can relieve pain and restore functionality.