What's causing my sudden ankle pain without an injury?

Ankle pain is pretty common to have, especially among older people. It’s estimated that for people over 55 years of age, this type of pain is very prevalent. Ankle pain can have a number of causes, but in cases where it appears suddenly and without injury, it can be harder to identify. 

If you’re experiencing pain in your ankle and you’re struggling to figure out what the cause might be, let us help you try to identify it. Even if you’re not sure what the source is, it’s important to get treatment for it. Otherwise, it might progressively worsen over time. Read more about potential causes and why physical therapy may be the best treatment for it.

What are some potential causes of sudden ankle pain without injury?

Not able to figure out why you’re feeling ankle pain that just began suddenly and without any injury? Here are a few possible explanations: 

• Flat feet — One of the reasons you might be experiencing ankle pain that began suddenly and without injury is because of flat feet. Flat foot is a condition involving the arches in the feet. When a person with flat feet stands on the ground, their arches, which are normally arched, are stretched flat onto the floor. A person can be born with it or develop it over time. When the arch collapses, the ankle is put under excessive strain. This strain can cause pain or discomfort in the ankle when standing and walking.

• Rheumatoid arthritis — Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition where the autoimmune system falsely recognizes the body’s own tissue as a threat and attacks it. It most commonly affects the joints, causing the body to gradually deteriorate the joints. This type of arthritis can cause the bones to eventually become deformed. If you’re dealing with rheumatoid arthritis and your ankle suddenly hurts, this could be a possible cause. 

• Achilles tendinitis — Tendinitis is the inflammation of the tendons in the body. It can occur at any region in the body where a tendon is, including the Achilles tendon. This tendon is located at the base of your heel and connects to the end of your calf muscle. The tendon runs through the back of your ankle, and when it becomes inflamed it may cause sudden pain.

Why should you use physical therapy to treat sudden ankle pain that occurs without any injury?

Ankle pain that appears out of nowhere can catch you off guard. Where did it come from? What caused it? How can you make it go away? You can find comfort in knowing that sudden ankle pain without an injury can be treated during physical therapy. 

PT is a noninvasive treatment option, meaning you won’t need to go under the knife to receive effective treatment. It’s also a treatment option that won’t cause you significant pain. It may involve a degree of discomfort, but physical therapists are trained to treat patients within their threshold. It won’t cause you any more discomfort than you can manage. 

Another reason to visit a physical therapist for ankle pain is that the effects can far outlast many other treatment methods. Medication or injections can provide temporary relief, but they don’t really address the root of the issue. Physical therapy is designed to address the issue and any adjacent problems or areas of weakness. It’s a whole-body approach to patient care. 

Don't delay getting physical therapy treatment any longer. Alliance PTP wants you to find treatment as soon as possible

You probably don’t have to go as far as you think to get help with your sudden ankle pain. After all, Alliance Physical Therapy Partners has practices across the country where you can find the physical therapy you need. 

And if there isn’t one near you, don’t worry! We also offer highly effective and affordable virtual care in nearly every U.S. state. 

So, don’t keep letting your symptoms affect your day-to-day life. Get in touch with our team today so we can help you find the physical therapy that’s right for you.