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New York: Roslyn - 516-484-1420
Huntington - 631-427-3678
Serena Williams’ Australian Open preparations took a major hit Wednesday when she injured her left ankle at the Brisbane International, laying on the court for several minutes while she received treatment.
Ankle injuries can be tricky and can lead to chronic issues. Chronic lateral ankle pain is recurring orchronic pain on the outside part of the ankle that often develops after an injury such as a sprained ankle.
Williams said her first thought when she sprawled to the court near the baseline on Wednesday was“not again.”
Signs and symptoms include:
- Ankle instability
- Difficulty walking on uneven ground or in high heels
- Pain, sometimes intense, on the outer side of the ankle
- Repeated ankle sprains
- Stiffness
- Swelling
- Tenderness.
Although ankle sprains are the most common cause of chronic lateral ankle pain, other causes may include:
- A fracture in one of the bones that make up the ankle joint
- Arthritis of the ankle joint
- Inflammation of the joint lining
- Injury to the nerves that pass through the ankle. In this case, the nerves become stretched, torn, injured by a direct blow, or pinched under pressure
- Scar tissue in the ankle after a sprain. The scar tissue takes up space in the joint, putting pressure on the ligaments
- Torn or inflamed tendon.
Treatments for chronic lateral ankle pain include:
- Over the counter or prescription anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling. Note:Please consult your physician before taking any medications
- Physical therapy, including tilt-board exercises that focus on strengthening the muscles, restoring range of motion, and increasing your perception of joint position
- Ankle braces or other supports
- Steroid medication
- Immobilization to allow the bone to heal (in cases of fractures).
Remember, even the most fit athletes are prone to foot and ankle injury. Regular check up and maintenance with your doctor is always recommended. Call Associated Podiatrists in New York and Connecticut today!