Ankle tendonitis can occur both in the inside or outside part of the ankle. Tendonitis is inflammation of a tendon. A tendon is a group of cord-like fibers that attach a muscle to a bone. Tendons can become irritated either thorough overuse or trauma. Ankle tendonitis usually occurs from returning to sporting activities too fast and too vigorously. Alternatively, it may occur from excessive overuse such as too much running or jumping. Trauma can also cause tendonitis. If the ankle is hit or struck, the tendons become irritated and tendonitis may result.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of tendonitis is pain. The pain will be located on the inside or outside part of the ankle, typically below and behind the large bony bumps at the ankle called the malleoli. Sometimes, however, the discomfort may be located on the front inside area in front of the inside malleolus. Pain usually begins slowly and increases over several weeks. The discomfort is commonly described as hot or burning and the areas may actually feel warm or be red. Swelling may also be present. In more severe cases, the pain may be present at all times and begin to expand away from the area of initial pain. If the tendonitis has not become excessive, pain may be felt only during use. In the morning the ankle may be stiff and painful to move, improving slightly after some movement.
Activities that may be problematic include walking, running or going up and down stairs.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity of the inflammation. Your physician may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications, and rest is a primary consideration. Since the tendon attaches directly to the muscle, use of the muscle places stress on the tendon, which will continue to irritate the tendon. A splint or boot may be issued to temporarily immobilize the affected area and prevent use of the muscle.
Therapeutic modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, heat or ice may decrease pain and inflammation. A modality known as iontophoresis may also be used. Iontophoresis is another way to introduce an anti-inflammatory medicine to bony areas.
There are therapeutic exercises and stretches that can speed recovery and return you to pain-free function. It is important to follow the guidelines for the rest and exercise, because tendonitis can become reinflamed very easily. If you have had multiple episodes of tendonitis in the same area over several years, you may find it takes longer to heal.
Sometimes your health professional may perform a procedure known as friction massage. This manual therapy procedure is sometimes helpful with tendonitis.
If symptoms persist for a long time, anti-inflammatory injections or sometimes surgery may be advised.
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